European rugby giants DENY reports they have agreed shock deal to sign England legend Owen Farrell
FRENCH giants Racing 92 have denied shock reports England legend Owen Farrell has agreed to join them.
Midi Olympique claimed the Saracens fly-half had signed a two-year deal in France after deciding to miss the Six Nations to help his mental health.
But star-studded Top 14 club Racing issued a statement to insist nothing has been sorted with the Red Rose skipper, 32.
Under current rules, the British Lions star would be unable to launch an England comeback if he switched to an an overseas team.
Toulouse’s Jack Willis and Racing ace Henry Arundell were allowed to keep playing for the Red Rose after moving to France.
But that was due to “exceptional circumstances” as their respective clubs, Wasps and London Irish, left the Premiership over financial problems.
England and Saracens chiefs have backed Farrell taking a breather at international level.
Sarries said in November Farrell was stepping back from playing for England “to prioritise his and his family’s mental well-being”.
They added: “He will continue to play for Saracens and captain the club.
“As always, Owen will have the full support of everyone at the club.”
England boss Steve Borthwick was just as supportive.
He said: “Everyone at England Rugby is fully behind Owen’s decision.
“He is an exemplary player, captain and leader and always gives his all for his country.
“It is with typical courage that Owen has made this decision to open up in this manner.”
But Borthwick added: “Let’s be clear, we’re all hoping at some stage he will come back into the England team.
“Owen will make that decision, if and when he chooses to.”
Meawnhile, with or without Farrell, Racing’s squad already has many big names – like Arundell and South Africa skipper Siya Kolisi.