Trio of English clubs target Wales star as big decision now looms

Wales back-row Taine Basham is being linked with three English clubs ahead of his contract with the Dragons running out.

His deal with the Rodney Parade side finishes at the end of the current campaign, having signed a new contract back in April.

That came amid interest from Welsh and English clubs, including Saracens - with Basham ultimately penning a new deal alongside Wales internationals Rio Dyer and Aaron Wainwright.

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However, less than a year later, Basham is once again being linked with clubs across the border.

Rugbypass report that Gallagher Premiership champions Northampton Saints are keeping an eye on the 17-cap Wales flanker, along with Sale Sharks and Bristol Bears.

As was the case previously, it's also reported that some of the Dragons' Welsh rivals are also keen on signing the abrasive carrier.

Basham, who made his Wales debut in 2021, currently falls short of the 25-cap rule and would be unable to reach the number before his contract at Rodney Parade was up.

Therefore, was he to go, he would likely have a decision to make on his Test future. The 25-year-old spoke recently about his desire to keep on playing for Wales.

“I want the Welsh seven jersey, or just a Welsh jersey, back on my back again. This is just a stepping stone for that. Performing for the Dragons is a massive focus for me at the moment,” he said in October.

“I just want to go out there and put my own stamp on things. I want to be different to any other seven but know I have things to work on.”

Basham has been a standout performer for the Dragons in recent seasons, crossing for a try in his 100th appearance for the club against Montpellier on Friday.