French sports news outlets, RugbyRama and L'Equipe, are reporting that Owen Farrell is very close to making a shock move to France this summer.
The England talisman and former captain announced recently that he would be taking a sabbatical from international rugby, and would be missing the Six Nations.
Owen Farrell To Racing 92?
The reported move to Racing 92 would potentially spell the end for the 32-year-old's England career, although fans are now suggesting that the RFU will change their eligibility rules if the move goes through. The move would also put his Lions hopes in jeopardy.
No doubt the presence of Stuart Lancaster will make the decision easier, with RugbyRama reporting a two-year deal, while L'Equipe are saying three.
However, Racing 92 have released a statement, denying that an agreement has been reached:
"Racing 92 is regularly under the aegis of numerous speculations concerning movements within its workforce. We are delighted with the appeal of our club Racing 92. However, we deny any agreement concerning the English player Owen Farrell."
READ HERE: Irish Saracens Chief Blasts 'Shameful' Treatment Of Owen Farrell That Led To England Hiatus
🌹 BREAKING: Midi Olympique are reporting that Owen Farrell has signed a contract with Racing 92 for two years.
Huge news.
England may have now lost their captain for good.
— RugbyInsideLine (@RugbyInsideLine) January 5, 2024
If the Owen Farrell to @racing92 story is confirmed then it is bound to prompt debate about the eligibility rules involving @EnglandRugby qualified players. As things stand, if the former captain crosses La Manche his England career, if not his @lionsofficial one, will be over.
— Martin Gillingham (@MartGillingham) January 5, 2024
Great spot .. I'm sure Mark McCall is looking forward to tomorrow's post match media session already
— Andrew McKenna (@talkMacca) January 5, 2024
Racing have always had their fair share of superstars, and after the recent departure of Finn Russell they brought in the World Cup winning South Africa captain Siya Kolisi, Josua Tuisova, as well as Farrell's former England teammate Henry Arundell.
What makes the moves even more intriguing is that it was rumoured during the recent World Cup that Farrell and Arundell were involved in a training ground scuffle.
For Ireland fans it is certainly reminiscent of 2013 rivals Johnny Sexton and Ronan O'Gara, moved to the Parisian club at the same time.
It will be a massive loss to both Saracens and England if the move does go through.
SEE ALSO: Ferris Points Out Crucial Reason Why Billy Burns Won't Get Ireland Call-Up
