"Highest-paid player" - England fly-half Fin Smith signed multi-year contract

Friday, 26 September 2025 at 16:07

byRugby Rucker

Northampton Saints are set to make a significant statement of intent in the coming weeks, with reports indicating that England internationals Fin Smith and George Furbank will be the first of their high-profile players to commit long-term futures to Franklin’s Gardens.

According to

Rugby Pass, both players are expected to sign new deals, with Smith’s renewal a particular priority amid interest from other clubs.

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Fin Smith — Set to Become the Club’s Highest-Paid Player

Fin Smith’s rise since joining Northampton Saints from Worcester Warriors in late 2022 has been meteoric. His standout performances — including a central role in Saints’ 2024 Premiership title — have elevated him to one of English rugby’s brightest stars. This includes earning senior England caps and selection for the British & Irish Lions tour.

Rugby Pass reports that Smith will sign a new long-term deal with Northampton, securing his place in the club’s future plans. Separately, RUCK reports that this deal will make Smith the highest-paid player in Northampton Saints’ history — a clear indication of the club’s ambition to retain its star performers and fend off interest from rivals such as Newcastle Falcons.

George Furbank — Versatility Secured

George Furbank has been a vital part of Saints’ backline, offering versatility and consistency at the highest level. His six caps for England highlight his quality and value.

Northampton are understood to be offering him a new long-term contract alongside Smith, a move designed to lock in key experience for the club’s future campaigns.

Fraser Dingwall — Advanced Negotiations

Centre Fraser Dingwall is in advanced negotiations for a new deal. Having captained England A and shown strong leadership and skill, Dingwall’s retention is a priority. Sources close to the club expect an agreement in the near future, with no major obstacles anticipated.

Other Contract Talks

Northampton are also working to secure contracts for other England internationals whose deals expire at season’s end. Winger Tommy Freeman, scrum-half Alex Mitchell, and lock Alex Coles are all part of ongoing discussions, with the club keen to retain their key personnel ahead of the next campaign.

“Henry Pollock starts” – Our predicted Lions XV for the All Blacks tour in 2029

Given the historic and current strength of the All Blacks, the 2029 series will likely be a bigger test than the understrength Wallabies outfit Farrell has dispatched this year. Whoever takes the reins as head coach will be under intense pressure to get selections right.

With that in mind, here’s our early prediction for the 2029 Lions Test XV.

15. Blair Kinghorn

Despite missing most of the 2025 tour through injury and Top 14 commitments, Kinghorn remains one of the most complete fullbacks available to the Lions. On form, he’s the best in the Home Nations, offering versatility and composure at the back.

At 28, he’ll be in excellent physical shape by 2029. Starting the final Test this weekend provides valuable experience. While Sale’s Joe Carpenter is a rising threat, Kinghorn’s proven Test-level pedigree keeps him ahead.

14. Tommy Freeman

Freeman was a nailed-on starter throughout the 2025 series — and for good reason. At 24, he’s still developing but already plays like a seasoned international. His size, power, and try-scoring instinct make him a nightmare for defenders.

By 2029, he’ll be at his peak and could be one of the standout figures in the Lions backline.

13. Ollie Lawrence

Lawrence missed the 2025 tour through injury but would have almost certainly travelled — and challenged for a starting spot. With Huw Jones likely past his best at 35 in 2029, Lawrence (who’ll be 29) has a golden opportunity to claim the 13 jersey.

If he regains his top form, he’ll be tough to leave out.

12. Sione Tuipulotu

Tuipulotu impressed during the 2025 season and was arguably unlucky to be benched in favour of Bundee Aki, despite being in better form. By 2029, he’ll be 32 and bring a wealth of experience.

His blend of physicality and skill, along with a calm head, will be vital against the All Blacks.

11. Mack Hansen

Injury kept Hansen out of the 2025 series, but if fit, he’ll be 31 in 2029 and still a major attacking threat. His flair, game intelligence, and unpredictability make him a fan favourite.

If Andy Farrell isn’t retained as coach, Hansen could be overlooked for a winger from another nation — but on ability alone, he’s hard to ignore.

10. Fin Smith

Smith is the standout young fly-half in English rugby and showed real quality during the 2025 series, even if opportunities were limited. His decision-making, game management and kicking are already top-tier.

By 2029, he could be the best No.10 available. Sam Prendergast might challenge him, but Smith currently looks the more complete package.

9. Alex Mitchell

Mitchell is in his prime at 28 and impressed during the 2025 tour. With few younger No.9s putting their hands up, he’s in a strong position to retain the jersey.

If his partnership with Fin Smith continues at Northampton Saints, that club connection could be a big plus for the Lions in 2029.

1. Andrew Porter

Porter had a strong 2025 campaign and remains a key figure in the front row. A year younger than Ellis Genge, his improving scrummaging and discipline could give him the edge in selection.

He looks better with every season.

2. Dan Sheehan

Arguably the standout player of the 2025 tour, Sheehan is still only 26. His dynamism, lineout accuracy and class around the field make him one of the easiest selections.

Barring injury or a dramatic dip in form, expect him to be starting in 2029.

3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour

A breakout year for Sale Sharks has put Opoku-Fordjour on the map. At just 21, he’s already among the top tightheads in the Premiership.

Strong in the scrum and dangerous in open play, he could be one of rugby’s biggest names by 2029 if his rise continues.

4. Maro Itoje

Itoje captained the Lions in 2025 and remains a central figure. He’ll be 34 in 2029, but his leadership, physicality and tour experience should keep him firmly in the mix.

No one matches his influence in the big moments.

5. George Martin

Injuries limited Martin’s involvement in 2025, but his long-term partnership with Itoje for England makes him a natural successor. He’ll be 28 in 2029 and hitting peak form.

His physicality and work rate will make him hard to ignore.

6. Tom Curry

Few players are more committed than Curry. Despite a tough run of injuries, he remains a ferocious tackler and tireless presence.

At 31, he should still be near his best — and a guaranteed starter if fit.

7. Henry Pollock

Pollock was the wildcard pick everyone wanted in 2025 — and he delivered. His rise has been rapid, and he plays with confidence and flair.

If he stays on course, he could be a global star in 2029. A game-changer in every sense.

8. Caelan Doris

Doris was tipped to captain the 2025 side before injury struck. That dream might only be delayed. He’s widely regarded as the best No.8 in the Home Nations and, at 30, will still be at the top of his game in 2029.

While Jack Conan performed well this year, Doris offers more across the board. There may be back-row reshuffles involving Jac Morgan or Pollock, but Doris remains the gold standard.