Max Malins set for Saracens exit - report

Max Malins could leave Saracens at the end of the season as he eyes more game time at fullback, according to reports.

The Daily Telegraph reports that the 25-year-old has held talks with Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam over a long-term deal at Ashton Gate.

The talented back who has been a regular on the wing for Saracens spent the 2020/21 season at Bristol where he featured at fullback, wing and flyhalf helping the side to Challenge Cup glory.

He scored 18 tries in 19 games, in all competitions, earning him a place in the England set-up where he has since earned 14 caps. Malins was last season’s top try-scorer with 16 tries in 15 appearances but has often started on the wing for Saracens and England.

It appears that Malins sees his long-term future at fullback and with Elliot Daly and Alex Goode in the Saracens squad, he may continue to play on the wing for Saracens, but could get more appearances at fullback if he returns to Bristol.

The report further fuels the suspicions that Charles Piutau will leave Bristol at the end of the current season as the squeeze on the Premiership budgets continues to take its toll.

The Bears were also linked with Leicester Tigers and England fullback Freddie Steward but the 21-year-old signed a new two-year contract at Welford Road this week.