Saracens keen to keep Itoje on board

SARACENS are in talks with England captain Maro Itoje about extending his stay at the StoneX. Midi Olympique claims European champions Bordeaux-Begles and Perpignan are among those hoping to lure lock Itoje, 32, across the Channel when his deal expires after the World Cup.

Moving to France would bar Itoje from playing for England. Saracens are optimistic of reaching an agreement with Itoje, but know they might struggle to match financial offers from the Top 14.

However Itoje is understood to be Saracens’ marquee player, so exempt from the salary cap, and by staying in England he would also be on a central contract worth about £150,000 a year.