Jack Willis turns down approach from Saracens, will make international return in 2025
Rugby NewsThursday, 17 October 2024 at 15:13
It looks like Jack Willis is about to drop the bombshell English fans were hoping to avoid!
, the powerhouse flanker is reportedly
this close to signing a brand-new four-year deal with the French giants, Toulouse, keeping him at the reigning Top 14 champions until the summer of 2029.
Bad news for Steve Borthwick though – with Willis staying put in France, he’s off the radar for England selection thanks to that tricky RFU rule. With 14 England caps to his name, it’s a shame, but hey, rules are rules!
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But Wait, Here’s the Silver Lining!
Willis might not be available for England, but don’t count him out of international action entirely. With the British & Irish Lions tour in 2025, he could still be donning that famous red jersey. Word on the street is Andy Farrell’s a big fan of his back-row versatility. Lions 2025? Yes, please!
The Willis Effect – Toulouse’s Secret Weapon
At 27 years old, Willis has been a revelation at Toulouse since his arrival in November 2022, when Wasps sadly hit liquidation. Since then, he’s racked up 40 appearances, becoming a key part of the team’s insane double-winning season – lifting both the Top 14 and Investec Champions Cup. Not too shabby, right?
With his contract set to expire at the end of this season, Toulouse had a clause to extend it by a year. But, let’s be real, there was never any question about Willis’ future with the French titans. December deadline? Nah, they’ve snapped him up before that!
Willis on Wasps: “I Miss My Mates”
Despite settling into the Toulouse way of life, Willis still holds Wasps close to his heart. “I miss so much about Wasps every day,” Willis said. “I miss playing with my best mates, playing with my brother. But this group at Toulouse – they’ve welcomed me in so well. It’s been amazing.”
The flanker, who had been linked with a possible move to Saracens, is all in on his French adventure, and from the sounds of it, he’s loving every second of it. You can bet that Top 14 rivals will be keeping an eye on this unstoppable Englishman in seasons to come.
DITORS PICKS:
Joe Marler and FOUR other major England stars out of contract next summer
As rugby fans eagerly await the 2024/25 season, several high-profile England internationals are approaching the end of their contracts.
While some may stay in the Premiership, others could be tempted by lucrative moves abroad. Here’s a closer look at the key players whose futures are in the balance.
#1. Joe Marler (Harlequins)
“The Last Laugh?”
Joe Marler, the charismatic Harlequins prop, has confirmed he will continue playing into the 2024/25 season but has also hinted at a retirement date on the horizon. Known for his distinctive personality both on and off the field, Marler is already carving out a post-rugby career through his hit podcast, "The Joe Marler Show."
Interestingly, his future plans don’t involve coaching, with Marler expressing a desire to pursue a media career beyond the sports world. This suggests that rugby fans may soon see him transition into new ventures as he bids farewell to professional rugby.
#2. Anthony Watson (Leicester Tigers)
“Flying into the Unknown”
The electrifying Leicester Tigers winger Anthony Watson could be on the verge of a significant career move. With his contract set to expire after the 2024/25 season, Watson may join other Leicester stars like Julian Montoya and Handré Pollard in seeking new opportunities.
Despite missing the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to injury, Watson’s 55 England caps and his five British & Irish Lions Test appearances make him a hot prospect. If England head coach Steve Borthwick does not call him back into the national squad, a lucrative overseas contract may beckon for the 30-year-old.
#3. Max Malins (Bristol Bears)
“Speeding to New Horizons?”
Currently topping the Premiership try-scoring charts, Max Malins is a man in demand. The Bristol Bears flyer joined the club from Saracens on a two-year deal in 2023, and his blistering form has continued since.
While Bristol will be eager to retain their try machine, his omission from England's current setup under Borthwick could lead Malins to consider a lucrative move to France. With his contract up next summer, he might decide that a stint in the Top 14 could be the next chapter in his flourishing career.
Max Malins of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
#4. George Ford (Sale Sharks)
“Northern Loyalty or French Flair?”
George Ford, the Sale Sharks playmaker, has found himself at the centre of speculation. Rumours from France suggest that Toulon are keen to lure Ford to the Top 14, while reports indicate that Clermont Auvergne, Bordeaux-Bègles, and Castres have all expressed interest in the England fly-half.
However, Ford has previously rebuffed interest from French clubs, and there are whispers that he may extend his stay with Sale. Only time will tell whether he remains loyal to the North West or makes a big-money move across the Channel.
#5. Sam Simmonds (Montpellier)
“Sibling Reunion in the South of France?”
Sam Simmonds, the dynamic No. 8, could be in for a reunion with his brother, Joe, at French club Pau. With his future at Montpellier uncertain following Billy Vunipola’s arrival, the club may opt not to renew his contract.
Lyon have also entered the race for Simmonds’ signature, keen to bolster their squad with the former Premiership Player of the Season. Whether Simmonds chooses Pau or Lyon, one thing is clear—his talents will be highly sought after next summer.
Sam Simmonds (Exeter Chiefs, 7 caps) during England Rugby training session at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 28 Sept 2021. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
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