Farrell set to remain Sarries marquee man

Saracens are closing in on agreeing terms to a new contract with skipper Owen Farrell, below, who is out of contract at the end of the season.

Farrell, who last week announced that he would be missing this season’s Six Nations, is also believed to be considering opting out of the summer tour to Japan and New Zealand as well.

But Blindside understands that Farrell, who is keen on playing for the Lions in 2025 and for England at the next World Cup, will be keeping his status as the Premiership champions’ marquee player.

Farrell, who signed his last deal with Saracens in 2019, is believed to be one of the highest paid players in the world, earning around £800,000 a season plus £23,000 every time he pulls on an England shirt.

And despite his international sabbatical, it is understood that Twickenham bosses are willing to give him one of their new hybrid contracts, which is likely to top up his wages to the tune of £150,000 a season.

He has been earmarked for a deal even though there are whispers that he might even call time on his record-breaking international career that has seen him win 112 caps.