Premiership rival make Bath fly-half Finn Russell their number one target
11/14/2024 05:07 AM
As Bath's £1.2m man Finn Russell approaches the final year of his blockbuster contract, the race to secure his signature is heating up.
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RugbyPass has revealed that five clubs from the Gallagher Premiership, Top 14, and Japan are positioning themselves to launch negotiations next July.
Bristol Bears’ Ambitious Plans
Bristol Bears owner Steve Lansdown has placed Russell at the top of his wishlist. The aim? To pair the Scotland and Lions superstar with his compatriot Tom Jordan, whom Bristol hope to bring on board next summer. The West Country club clearly means business, and Russell could be a crucial piece in their rebuilding puzzle.
A Chat in the Stands
Rumors gained traction when Russell was spotted in deep conversation with Racing 92 president Laurent Travers. The meeting took place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield during Scotland's 32-15 defeat to South Africa, a scene that sparked speculation about a potential return to the Paris-based club he starred for before joining Bath.
Stade Français and Saracens Interested
Stade Français are another heavyweight contender eager to speak with Russell. Meanwhile, the ever-dominant Saracens have also thrown their hat in the ring, hoping to add the Scottish magician to their squad. The Champions Cup-winning side's interest underlines Russell's status as a true game-changer.
Japan Beckons?
Adding an exotic twist to the saga, Japanese club Urayasu D-Rocks have emerged as suitors. Coached by Russell's former teammate Greig Laidlaw, the D-Rocks could offer a lucrative and lifestyle-driven move to the Land of the Rising Sun. As the negotiations draw closer, the intrigue around Russell’s next destination continues to grow.
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Finn Russell's Missus Shuts Down Trolls with Absolute Savagery
Finn Russell: The Scotland fly-half was in action over the weekend as Scotland fell to a narrow defeat against South Africa at Murrayfield.
His partner, Emma Canning, was there to cheer him on, adding some serious star power from the stands.
Emma Canning:
Canning, who has over 20,000 Instagram followers, is no stranger to the spotlight. A former heptathlete for Scotland, she shares glimpses of her glamorous life alongside Russell. The couple has faced ups and downs, briefly splitting in 2021 but reuniting stronger than ever.
No Mercy for Trolls:
Last year, after a troll dismissed her achievements, Canning's comeback was epic: "Actually – there's room for two Scottish athletes in our relationship. Lol," followed by a video of her long jump competition. Savage.
Family Life:
The pair welcomed their first child, Charlie, in December 2022 before welcoming baby Skye over the summer.
DID YOU KNOW? Russell's nicknames are as entertaining as his game. Teammate Simon Zebo calls him "White Chocolate," while "Russell the Muscle" playfully references his lean frame.
Wealthiest Rugby couples (Net Worth):
From high-profile partnerships to humble beginnings, these power pairs have amassed impressive fortunes while leaving a lasting legacy. With stories of childhood love, philanthropic missions, and royal connections, each couple brings their own unique flair to the game.
Here's a look at the top rugby couples whose bonds—and bank accounts—have made them iconic.
Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£6m)
From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby's wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans' hearts as much as Johnny's kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.
With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple's journey—from Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love.
Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£10m)
Siya and Rachel Kolisi's £10 million empire wasn't just built on rugby; it's infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.
Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya's life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa's "golden couple" lives on.
Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£20m)
"Fridge" by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall's wealth and fame go beyond rugby. Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike's career has been nothing short of resilient.
Since retirement, he's taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. His estimated £20 million fortune proves rugby and royalty make quite the combo.
Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero's Quiet Empire (£22m)
Jonny Wilkinson isn't just a legend on the field; he's a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.
They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they're embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny's legacy as one of rugby's finest is matched by his financial success and family's privacy.
Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)
Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he's carved a unique sports career.
His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple's success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements.
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