Courtney Lawes has quashed speculation that he is to make a big-money move to France by agreeing a new deal with Northampton.
The England and Lions star would have brought an end to his 85-cap Red Rose career by switching to Beziers.
But reports that he was in “advanced” talks with the soon-to-be wealthy French second division club have been rubbished by sources close to the player.
Instead, it is understood Lawes, 31, will put pen to paper on a new contract keeping him at Franklin’s Gardens until at least the 2023 World Cup. Official confirmation is expected today.
England could ill-afford to lose the services of the second row cum flanker, given that George Kruis has ruled himself out national duty for a year by signing with Japanese outfit Panasonic Wild Knights.
Brad Barritt, who played alongside Lawes for the national side between 2012-15, is to leave Saracens at the end of the season after winning five Premiership titles, three Champions Cups and making 257 appearances.
He has, however, signed a contract extension to enable him to finish the Londoners’ European Cup campaign in the rescheduled part of this longest ever season.
"There have been so many memories, so many experiences, but sadly all good things must come to an end," said the South Africa-born centre.
Kevin Sorrell, Saracens’ backs coach, spent more than a decade in the club’s midfield, lining up alongside global greats Philippe Sella, Tim Horan and Thomas Castaignede during a 304-game career.
He has no doubt Barritt is up there with the best midfielders to have pulled on the Saracens jersey.
Sorrell said: “I’d definitely put Brad in the same bracket as Philippe Sella, Tim Horan and Thomas Castaignede in terms of his contribution to this club.
“His performances on the field and his leadership and friendship off it all add up to him being a massive part off what this club has been about these last 10 years. He’s been instrumental in setting the tone and driving stuff.”
