Racing line up shock French deal for Smith

FRENCH giants Racing 92 have approached Marcus Smith about a move to Paris after the World Cup.

Smith has a year remaining on his contract at Harlequins but Racing are exploring the option of a buyout to land him next season.

Finn Russell is leaving for Bath over the summer and the Parisian club earmarked Smith as a boxoffice replacement after his starring appearance at La Defense Arena in the Champions Cup.

With Smith’s status in England’s No 10 shirt far from secure, a move to France could be a golden opportunity to expand his playing repertoire in the Top 14 before the 2027 World Cup.

The salary cap squeeze in English rugby means Smith could command a higher salary in France, following the likes of Jack Willis, Sam Simmonds and Jack Nowell.

If he does move to Paris, the 24year-old would get to work under incoming coach Stuart Lancaster, who turned Leinster into a dominant force. Racing have signed Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and Smith would be the perfect profile for the razzle-dazzle club.

Harlequins will be reluctant to let Snith leave, having brought him through the academy and developed him into one of English rugby’s most popular figures.