Saracens Boss Comments On Potential Eben Etzebeth Deal

Reports this week suggested that Eben Etzebeth was set for a shock short-term move to Premiership champions Saracens.

The monster lock was reportedly set to join for a two-month spell following the November international series.

His club, Super Rugby side the Stormers  however had some concerns over the move due to Etzebeth’s lack of off-season, with their Director of Rugby stating,

“We need to hear what the expectations of Saracens and SA Rugby are. Players have a tough workload. We need to be convinced that this is a good rugby decision for Eben, not just a financial decision. We don’t want our players injured.”

Saracens boss Mark McCall however has come out today and stated a deal to sign the South Africa international is now “unlikely to happen”.

The Premiership and European champions are looking for a replacement for lock Alastair Hargreaves, who has been forced to retire because of concussion.

McCall confirmed talks had taken place about bringing Etzebeth to England, but the move has now fallen through.

“We are exploring some options, but that one is unlikely to happen,” McCall told BBC Radio 5 live.

“Trying to find somebody of the right quality who is available and eligible to come to the UK isn’t all that easy at this time of year.

“He would have been an interesting option, but it doesn’t look like it will happen.”