There was some scepticism on Wednesday when Sale Sharks denied reports that they were signing former Ulster players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding. It would not be the first time the Premiership club has denied interest in a player only to later acquire their services.
In March, both Jackson and Olding were found not guilty of raping the same woman in 2016. The IRFU and Ulster subsequently announced they would be holding a review into the conduct of the players. The result of that review was the decision to cut both players loose.
During the week, The Telegraph reported that Sale had agreed a deal with Jackson and that Olding would also follow him to the club.
A day later, Sale issued a statement denying any interest in the players.
We can confirm there is no substance to the rumours currently circulating in relation to the signing of the two international rugby players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding," the statement read.
Our search continues for top-class players to bolster the squad for next season.
However, according to The Rugby Paper's Neil Fissler - who linked the players to Sale long before the Telegraph - there most definitely was interest from the club.
It's said that Jackson signed 'heads of terms' on a three-year deal with the salary attached reported to be £320,000 rising to £340,000 by the final year of the contract.
It is also reported that Olding is believed to have verbally agreed a two-year deal with a base salary of £130,000 rising to £160,000 in the second year. There would also be a bonus of £500 per starting appearance.
However, outcry regarding their possible signing led to Sale disavowing interest. Apparently, that denial was made just as both players were leaving Sale's training ground.
Photo by Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile
