While much of the buzz around potential free transfers this summer is based on players whose contracts already expired in 2022, many of England’s biggest stars in the world will see their current deals run out next year.
Now that we are in August 2022, Premiership sides are starting to get into some uncertain territory with regards to some star players.
RUCK has compiled a list of the best free agents available in 2023. Clubs will be able to negotiate with these players freely from January 2023.
#1. Maro Itoje
Japan’s Top League and Major League Rugby are hoping to lure England star Maro Itoje following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Final whistle celebrations for Maro Itoje of England Rugby after the Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 26th 2021. – PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
The England lock, who was linked with a move to the Top 14 when Saracens were relegated, would demand a huge salary plus bonuses, according to Racing 92 owner Jacky Lorenzetti.
Asked if Itoje wanted too much money, Lorezetti told rugbyrama.fr : “Yes, it was unpayable.
“You know, we weren’t the only ones at the time: Bordeaux, Lyon, Montpellier were all called upon. We were talking about a salary of over £1m plus bonuses.
“That represented 10 per cent of our payroll. We made the choice not to go any further. I think he doesn’t want to move, so they come out with ridiculous demands.”
