Saracens could be the first to track Webb

EUROPEAN champions Saracens are reportedly the first club to show an interest in Rhys Webb after the scrum-half’s CV was circulated to leading clubs in England and France.

The Ospreys and Wales man becomes a free agent when his current deal expires next summer.

The Rugby Paper suggests that Saracens are keen to sign Webb, who is under a national dual contract.

Others seem certain to join the queue for the Lions Test man’s services, meaning the Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys need to get their act together quickly if they are to stop the 28-year-old being tempted away.

The Ospreys have Brendon Leonard and Tom Habberfield as scrum-half options, but Webb is one of the leading No. 9s in European rugby with his vast experience and explosive all-round game.

He can be a nightmare to defend against and is often the catalyst for his region with his ability to snaffle tries and trouble opposition back rows.

Saracens are said to have Ben Spencer out of contract in the summer and are looking for a long-term replacement for the 34-year-old Richard Wigglesworth.

And having lured Liam Williams from Wales, they also have deep pockets.

The Ospreys will surely be keen for Webb to stay put.

They will lose Dan Biggar to Northampton Saints at the end of the season and would not want to see his long-time half-back partner leave at the same time.

The likelihood is that Warren Gatland, too, would also prefer Webb to remain at home, with potential complications otherwise arising for him next season under the WRU’s senior player selection policy.

He is allowed to pick four exiled wildcards over the next two years, but Taulupe Faletau, Liam Williams, Jamie Roberts and George North already have that status, while there is uncertainty over Rhys Priestland’s position.

If Webb heads away from the regional scene that could cause Gatland a headache.