Owen Farrell: Mark McCall understands if Saracens star wants to sign for Racing 92 - ‘Who could blame him?’

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall admitted he would understand if Owen Farrell swapped the Gallagher Premiership for France’s Top 14 amid speculation linking the fly-half with a move to Racing 92.

French outlet L’Equipe reported earlier in the week that Farrell was in “advanced discussions” to leave Sarries, the club he has played for since 2008.

Racing released a statement in response, saying they were "delighted with the appeal for our club" before insisting no agreement was in place with the 32-year-old.

Farrell recently announced he was going to skip the upcoming Six Nations to prioritise his and his family’s mental wellbeing.

“Having stepped down from England, if he decided him and his family want a new experience elsewhere, who could blame him?” McCall told the BBC.

“What I can say is Owen has given his life to our club, he's been there since he was 16 years old, maybe before that. He's been an incredible player, leader and person at the club for so long.

“When things got tough in 2019 [when Saracens were relegated for breaching the Premiership's salary cap regulations], he was one of the ones who wasn't going anywhere, he showed what the club meant to him and showed his loyalty.”

He added: “I understand why people need to ask the question, but I can't answer the question because it's speculation at this moment in time.

“As soon as there's something proper to talk about, we'll talk about it.”

England head coach Steve Borthwick said he was “hopeful” he would be able to call on Farrell again soon, but if he makes the switch to the Top 14, the 32-year-old will no longer be eligible for international selection.

The fly-half played for Saracens during a 19-10 defeat away to Leicester Tigers on Saturday. It was the third loss in four for McCall’s side, who now sit sixth in the Premiership as the race for the top four heats up.

McCall praised Farrell for his contribution and for “putting distractions to one side”.

Saracens are next in action in the Investec Champions Cup when they travel to take on Bordeaux Begles in a Pool 1 clash on January 14, with the game live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

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