Saracens sign highly-rated England hopeful with ‘great potential’ despite ‘good offer’ from Premiership club
Phil Brantingham of Newcastle Falcons arriving at Kingston Park for the Gallagher Premiership match between Newcastle Falcons and Harlequins at Kingston Park, Newcastle on Friday 5th January 2024.
Saracens have confirmed the signing of rising star Phil Brantingham from Newcastle Falcons, as reported by Planet Rugby in January.
The 22-year-old has inked a long-term deal with the London-based club and will make the move in the summer.
Saracens sign Brantingham
Planet Rugby reported in January that Brantingham had signed a contract with Saracens for the 2024/25 season, but the club were eager for him to join ahead of schedule, which they were seemingly unsuccessful in doing.
The loosehead will only link up with his new teammates ahead of next season and will play out the remainder of what has been a breakout season with Newcastle Falcons.
“I’m really excited to be joining such a huge club at an exciting time in their journey. I can’t wait to rip in and build on the success of Saracens,” Brantingham said.
The ex-England U20 star has been on Saracens’ radar for some time now and played both rugby union and league during his youth.
“Great potential”
He captained Newcastle in a pre-season game and has cemented his place in the first team this campaign, playing all 12 of the Falcons’ Premiership matches, and made his Challenge Cup debut.
“We have tracked Phil for the last couple of years, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming him to Saracens,” said Saracens boss Mark McCall.
“He is a young player with great potential and we believe he has the talent and the character to have a great impact at the club.”
Newcastle Falcons chairman of rugby, Matt Thompson, said: “Phil has done well for us, and we made him a good offer to stay here.
“We respect his decision and wish him all the best for his move in the summer, but between now and then he will be fully committed to finishing the season strongly for Newcastle Falcons.”
While only 22, Brantingham is also on the radar for the England national team, with Steve Borthwick name-dropping the youngster ahead of naming his squad for the 2024 Six Nations.
READ MORE: Ex-Wales back seals move to Super Rugby giants after All Blacks star’s injury
