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Transfer rumours
Discussion started by by (IP Logged), 30 November, 2017 11:06
by
by
30 November, 2017 11:06
With all the transfer rumours flying around at the moment, I thought I'd try and create a thread to keep them all in one place.

Kahn Fotulai'i - Club announced that his contract has been extended

Lucas Noguera Paz - Argentinian media have confirmed that hes coming to Bath, alleged to have signed a 1 and a half year contract

Nick Auterac - Its not clear if his contract is up at the end of the season but reports have come out that he wants to move back to London with Quins as strong contenders.

Matt Banahan - His 5 year deal ends in the summer and he has yet to sign a new deal, people in the know say that Bath have not increased his salary from the previous deal.

Elliot Stooke - Contract runs out in the summer, Bristol have reportedly been trying to sign him.

Ben Tapuai - Rumoured started on this forum saying he was going to Quins but its not clear if he is out of contract next year.

Will Spencer - Malco (old poster here) said on Facebook that we have signed a EQ lock for next season and with Will moving on from Wuss next year, hes just put 2 and 2 together.


Using the squad list on this site I've created a list of players who are going out of contract.


Jack Walker 2017/18
Michael van Vuuren 2017/18 on loan to London Scottish
Kane Palma-Newport 2017/18
Shaun Knight 2017/18
James Phillips 2017/18
Matt Banahan 2017/18
Aled Brew 2017/18
Jeff Williams 2017/18
Elliott Stooke Undisclosed contract signed 2016/17
Nick Auterac Undisclosed contract extension signed 2015/16
Will Homer Dual registration with Leeds 2017/8
Ben Tapuai Undisclosed contract signed 2016/17
Anthony Perenise Undisclosed contract signed 2017/18
Darren Atkins 2017/18 on dual registration with Leeds
Rory Jennings 2017/18



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 30/11/2017 11:16 by by.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
30 November, 2017 11:09
I think there was a Chron article saying that Roko had extended on the quiet last year.

by
by
30 November, 2017 11:17
Quote:
hasta
I think there was a Chron article saying that Roko had extended on the quiet last year.

Thanks, updated

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
30 November, 2017 11:18
Any idea where Scott Andrews sits in all this, currently on loan from Cardiff Blues but might he become a signing?

cb2
cb2
30 November, 2017 11:21
Aled Brew would be one to keep, if the money is right. He never looks out of place in the centre or on the wing.

by
by
30 November, 2017 11:28
Scott Andrews should be going back to Cardiff Blues shortly AFAIK.

Bath Hammer
Bath Hammer
30 November, 2017 12:40
What is an EQ lock?

by
by
30 November, 2017 12:45
EQ = English Qualified

Lock = second row.

MESSAGES->author
Rawce
30 November, 2017 12:46
England Qualified.

Pie-Half
Pie-Half
30 November, 2017 15:52
Just read an article suggesting 11 lions out of contract in the summer. If true

CJ Stander
Haskell
Tadgh Furlong
Cips
o'Mahony
Goneva
Alex Lewington
Rory Best
Iain Henderson
Launchbury
Afoa
Foden
Jared Payne
Rocco ( though above said he has signed, so brings whole article into doubt)
J Roberts
Johnny Gray (Briz??)
AWJ
Christian Wade
Cuthbert
Banners (discussed above)

From that list, i'd love to keep Rocco and bannners and then pick up Furlong, Gray, Wade, Henderson, and big Joe L.

However, before i get shot down, it may jjust be foundationless clickbait.



Andy Goode's body double.

Bring back rucking and speed up the game. Simples, for rucks sake.

Anyone.But.Tiggers.

Charlie Ewels - Adopted player 2018/19
Levi Douglas - Adopted player 2017/18
Tom Homer - Adopted player 2016/17

MESSAGES->author
BathSalmon
30 November, 2017 16:14
Quote:
Pie-Half
Just read an article suggesting 11 lions out of contract in the summer. If true
CJ Stander
Haskell
Tadgh Furlong
Cips
o'Mahony
Goneva
Alex Lewington
Rory Best
Iain Henderson
Launchbury
Afoa
Foden
Jared Payne
Rocco ( though above said he has signed, so brings whole article into doubt)
J Roberts
Johnny Gray (Briz??)
AWJ
Christian Wade
Cuthbert
Banners (discussed above)

From that list, i'd love to keep Rocco and bannners and then pick up Furlong, Gray, Wade, Henderson, and big Joe L.

However, before i get shot down, it may jjust be foundationless clickbait.

Link?

rainbow
rainbow
30 November, 2017 16:15
Bath appear to be more concerned with re-development of the Rec' at the expense of the actual rugby side of things.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
30 November, 2017 16:36
He says, offering zero evidence.

MESSAGES->author
hemington
30 November, 2017 16:38
Yes because they realise that a fantastic state of the art stadium can be used for everything from tiddlywinks to plate spinning championships and that rugby doesn't really mamatter in the big scheme of things!

by
by
30 November, 2017 17:04
Maybe Launchbury is the EQ lock Malco was talking about smiling smiley

Rolfs_Cartoon_Club
@Hydor18
30 November, 2017 17:36
Launchbury has re-signed for Wasps.

We’re rumoured to be after Nathan Earle, which may precipitate Banners departure.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
30 November, 2017 18:19
Quote:
rainbow
Bath appear to be more concerned with re-development of the Rec' at the expense of the actual rugby side of things.

It is not uncommon for clubs to see a dip in form related to ground development, have to say that West Ham are a bit of an extreme example of this! Sorry BH. On the plus side once established the performances jump up!

MESSAGES->author
OutsideBath
30 November, 2017 18:25
Quote:
rainbow
Bath appear to be more concerned with re-development of the Rec' at the expense of the actual rugby side of things.

For a long time this was my impression also, however there's no concrete evidence that this is true and now it seems the reason we haven't signed any of the players TB wanted is we've blown the budget and haven't sufficient room in the salary cap.

If you're waiting for a big money signing then I think you're going to be disappointed for quite some time. Far more likely that a big name leaves to create space for new players to join within the cap.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
30 November, 2017 18:51
Most of those names have been linked to France, especially the Irish stars. Oh, and Wade. Quite a few are in the twighlights of their careers. Of the rest I would be most interested in Lewington and Launchbury.

I would be very surprised if anyone involved in the playing or management side was taking too much of their time on stadium issues, that will be in the hands of a planner and/or PM company by the looks.

ballsout
ballsout
30 November, 2017 20:14
Quote:
rainbow
Bath appear to be more concerned with re-development of the Rec' at the expense of the actual rugby side of things.

ffs

southgate
southgate
01 December, 2017 07:29
Quote:
rainbow
Bath appear to be more concerned with re-development of the Rec' at the expense of the actual rugby side of things.

The winner of the most stupid post

Ali1969
Ali1969
01 December, 2017 07:59
Guys we have to be realistic of course the emphasis is going to be equally split between the playing and the infrastructure. Tony Roe only a couple of days ago stated as a CEO and investor he was expecting a profit making business and as such you have to invest time and effort into the stadium.

BC is a passionate Bath Rugby fan and has shown this with his investment and there is no way he will allow the stadium to be built at the expense of the team.

It will be a shame to lose Banners however ala David. Beckham and Man Utd no one person can be bigger than the club and the stark reality of the modern game is he is 30 plus and is not this season a first choice when all fit, sad but true and this probably reflects in his contract offer.

Pie-Half
Pie-Half
01 December, 2017 09:11
Quote:
BathSalmon
Quote:
Pie-Half
Just read an article suggesting 11 lions out of contract in the summer. If true
CJ Stander
Haskell
Tadgh Furlong
Cips
o'Mahony
Goneva
Alex Lewington
Rory Best
Iain Henderson
Launchbury
Afoa
Foden
Jared Payne
Rocco ( though above said he has signed, so brings whole article into doubt)
J Roberts
Johnny Gray (Briz??)
AWJ
Christian Wade
Cuthbert
Banners (discussed above)

From that list, i'd love to keep Rocco and bannners and then pick up Furlong, Gray, Wade, Henderson, and big Joe L.

However, before i get shot down, it may jjust be foundationless clickbait.

Link?

29Nov - [www.ruck.co.uk]

But by the sounds of it its just out of date clickbait (see original disclaimer)

But then on a one in - one out policy

Banners => Lewington
Phillips => Launchbury
Furlong/Afoa => Thomas (like him, but always injured)

Pie-Half
Pie-Half
01 December, 2017 09:17
IMHO we should be targeting front row, but mainly THP in the off season

As far as i can tell at the end of the season we will have Lahiff and Thomas only. KPN, Knight, Ant, Andrews all out of contract at the end of the year. I'd Like to keep Andrews and or Ant, but would not cry if others left. would love to throw chequebook at Tadgh.



Andy Goode's body double.

Bring back rucking and speed up the game. Simples, for rucks sake.

Anyone.But.Tiggers.

Charlie Ewels - Adopted player 2018/19
Levi Douglas - Adopted player 2017/18
Tom Homer - Adopted player 2016/17

MESSAGES->author
BathSalmon
01 December, 2017 09:32
Quote:
Pie-Half
Quote:
BathSalmon
Quote:
Pie-Half
Just read an article suggesting 11 lions out of contract in the summer. If true
CJ Stander
Haskell
Tadgh Furlong
Cips
o'Mahony
Goneva
Alex Lewington
Rory Best
Iain Henderson
Launchbury
Afoa
Foden
Jared Payne
Rocco ( though above said he has signed, so brings whole article into doubt)
J Roberts
Johnny Gray (Briz??)
AWJ
Christian Wade
Cuthbert
Banners (discussed above)

From that list, i'd love to keep Rocco and bannners and then pick up Furlong, Gray, Wade, Henderson, and big Joe L.

However, before i get shot down, it may jjust be foundationless clickbait.

Link?

29Nov - [www.ruck.co.uk]

But by the sounds of it its just out of date clickbait (see original disclaimer)

But then on a one in - one out policy

Banners => Lewington
Phillips => Launchbury
Furlong/Afoa => Thomas (like him, but always injured)

Thanks for the link, it's much easier to gauge when you read it yourself and see what website is publishing the information.

There may well be some truth in these contract situations.

HMilner
Big Dog
01 December, 2017 09:39
Quote:
Pie-Half
IMHO we should be targeting front row, but mainly THP in the off season
As far as i can tell at the end of the season we will have Lahiff and Thomas only. KPN, Knight, Ant, Andrews all out of contract at the end of the year. I'd Like to keep Andrews and or Ant, but would not cry if others left. would love to throw chequebook at Tadgh.

Would rather keep Andrews and Perenise than sign Furlong personally. Makes much better sense £££ wise and also gives you more options and cover. Furlong would be missing for large stretches of the season with Ireland and as great as having a team full of internationals would be we currently do not have the strength in depth to lose 10 players from our starting XV and still win every game - certainly not in a manner that keeps some posters on here happy! Furlong would also probably not leave Ireland at this early stage of his career so pointless speculating on it.



Adopted players:
2018-19 Jonathan Joseph
2017-18 Shaun Knight

by
by
01 December, 2017 10:18
Quote:
Big Dog
Quote:
Pie-Half
IMHO we should be targeting front row, but mainly THP in the off season
As far as i can tell at the end of the season we will have Lahiff and Thomas only. KPN, Knight, Ant, Andrews all out of contract at the end of the year. I'd Like to keep Andrews and or Ant, but would not cry if others left. would love to throw chequebook at Tadgh.

Would rather keep Andrews and Perenise than sign Furlong personally. Makes much better sense £££ wise and also gives you more options and cover. Furlong would be missing for large stretches of the season with Ireland and as great as having a team full of internationals would be we currently do not have the strength in depth to lose 10 players from our starting XV and still win every game - certainly not in a manner that keeps some posters on here happy! Furlong would also probably not leave Ireland at this early stage of his career so pointless speculating on it.

+1

I believe our scrum is just second to Exeter in the league at the moment in terms of winning our own ball. I'd love to keep Perenise and Andrews.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
01 December, 2017 10:50
Winning our own lineout is more of a problem going forward, with Atters ongoing issues, Stooke coming to the end of his contract and Charteris not getting any younger. Etzebeth would do (Sm23)

MESSAGES->author
BathSalmon
01 December, 2017 10:58
Whatever happened to that South African lock we were linked to? Was it Franco Mostert?

That went quiet very quickly.

HMilner
Big Dog
01 December, 2017 11:00
Attwood is certainly a huge loss to us when he is not available. It is literally Attwood +1 for me as the others are all relatively on a par.

Charteris certainly has some superb parts to his game such as his driving maul defence but around the park is no better in my personal opinion to Stooke or Ewels. Is perhaps that bit more experienced and less likely to give penalties but I like both the younger lads and would like to keep them, Attwood and look to bring in another really big burly second row.

Speculation linking us with Will Spencer is interesting as he has impressed at Wuss since leaving us.



Adopted players:
2018-19 Jonathan Joseph
2017-18 Shaun Knight

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
01 December, 2017 11:24
I seem to remember Spencer being injured almost constantly and just coming back as he moved on. He was always a huge lump, even when a kid.

Bathovalballer
Bathovalballer
01 December, 2017 11:30
Spencer showed great promise with us but had a series of horrendous injuries. Certainly from what little I have seen of him at Worcester, he is a regular starter, looking the part and is both mobile and does the hard graft very well, in addition to being a tidy lineout jumper. Plus he is only 25 and has his best and strongest years to come. IMO it makes a lot of sense for us to get him back.

Definitely we must keep Stooke, also 25, and if we got Spencer, with Ewells and Attwood, would make for a very handy bunch of second rows. Charteris will not go on for ever, probably regretting at the end of his Bath contract (next season?).

By keeping the youngsters, we cover the bases if Atters has to call it a day, with young Douglas being able to step up and even Garvey covering the position if needed.

Pie-Half
Pie-Half
01 December, 2017 11:58
Quote:
Big Dog
Quote:
Pie-Half
IMHO we should be targeting front row, but mainly THP in the off season
As far as i can tell at the end of the season we will have Lahiff and Thomas only. KPN, Knight, Ant, Andrews all out of contract at the end of the year. I'd Like to keep Andrews and or Ant, but would not cry if others left. would love to throw chequebook at Tadgh.

Would rather keep Andrews and Perenise than sign Furlong personally. Makes much better sense £££ wise and also gives you more options and cover. Furlong would be missing for large stretches of the season with Ireland and as great as having a team full of internationals would be we currently do not have the strength in depth to lose 10 players from our starting XV and still win every game - certainly not in a manner that keeps some posters on here happy! Furlong would also probably not leave Ireland at this early stage of his career so pointless speculating on it.

err i belive that is what i said...
"I'd Like to keep Andrews and or Ant, but would not cry if others left. would love to throw chequebook at Tadgh."

I am sorry if that wasnt clear enough for you . Andrews Ant and Tadgh with A.N.Other

Boldangrey
Boldangrey
01 December, 2017 14:54
Quote:
BathMatt53
Winning our own lineout is more of a problem going forward, with Atters ongoing issues, Stooke coming to the end of his contract and Charteris not getting any younger. Etzebeth would do (Sm23)

Ewells will save the day! BOB said so.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
01 December, 2017 15:15
Quote:
Boldangrey
Quote:
BathMatt53
Winning our own lineout is more of a problem going forward, with Atters ongoing issues, Stooke coming to the end of his contract and Charteris not getting any younger. Etzebeth would do (Sm23)

Ewells will save the day! BOB said so.

Only if he plays both second row positions at the same time...he's good but that may be a stretch even for him!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/12/2017 15:16 by BathMatt53.

nick holder
nick holder
01 December, 2017 15:32
@#$%&, I thought Charlie Played 4 and Ewels played 5, I did not realise that until just now!

MESSAGES->author
hemington
01 December, 2017 16:50
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

Bathovalballer
Bathovalballer
01 December, 2017 17:25
IMO Stooke is a vital cog going forward, especially as his displays have been consistently good and far better than our other locks in Attwood's absence. Letting him go would be madness and he probably would be very costly to replace. You know it makes sense Bath, just look at the match tapes and who is the stand out second row this season and who should be paid/persuaded to stay accordingly.

Calling Bruce, big cheque/salary increase for Mr. Stooke please.

Danchinho
Danchinho
01 December, 2017 17:28
I think Stooke has been a top player for us.



I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
01 December, 2017 17:35
Agreed - expected not much when he arrived and very happy that he has massively proven me wrong. The trouble is that we will now have to pay to dollar to fend off others (weren't Briz interested?).

MESSAGES->author
OutsideBath
01 December, 2017 17:37
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
01 December, 2017 17:59
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

If we have no leeway under the cap maybe, but unless the club has changed their previously expressed statement that they will spend up to the cap to strengthen the squad, they do have the cash to compete.



Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
https://uploadscdn.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1694105203.jpg

http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330055.jpghttp://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330111.jpg

Bath Hammer
Bath Hammer
02 December, 2017 01:02
If all this can be believed we have evidently splashed too much cash on certain players. It’s great having players like Faletau & Underhill but if it means we don’t have the cash to hold on to the likes of Stooke & Banahan & really compromising our strength in depth I’m not so sure. I would have thought we could do both compared to what other better off clubs are able to do but if not I wonder if we have been mistaken in our approach since the value of those international players is much reduced by call ups for friendlies, training camps & all the associated risks.

ballsout
ballsout
02 December, 2017 01:30
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

He says, without a shred of evidence.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
02 December, 2017 06:04
Quote:
ballsout
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

He says, without a shred of evidence.

Agreed, we thought that they had no cash but they are allegedly bringing in a 40odd cap prop in Jan so that’s clearly not entirely true (if that signing is confirmed).

I just think that we wait and see what happens with regard to the re-signings. Stooke would be a priority though.

(BH I would have thought that TF is one of the marquees?)

MESSAGES->author
OutsideBath
02 December, 2017 07:39
Quote:
ballsout
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

He says, without a shred of evidence.

If we had the cash we would make Banners a decent offer.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
02 December, 2017 08:12
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
ballsout
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

He says, without a shred of evidence.

If we had the cash we would make Banners a decent offer.

Not if they thought that his demands were too high?

The only thing that had made me think we were short is that TB said we had no cash left when we were looking for a new IC. Guess they had a contingency pot.

MESSAGES->author
CoochieCoo
02 December, 2017 08:57
Quote:
BathMatt53
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
ballsout
Quote:
OutsideBath
Quote:
hemington
Why won't we hang onto Stooke?

We don't have the cash to compete with other teams courting our players.

He says, without a shred of evidence.

If we had the cash we would make Banners a decent offer.

Not if they thought that his demands were too high?

The only thing that had made me think we were short is that TB said we had no cash left when we were looking for a new IC. Guess they had a contingency pot.

There is plenty of cash the question is how to use it within the cap and the balance of the team.



Adopted player 2023/24 Matt Gallagher
https://uploadscdn.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1694105203.jpg

http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330055.jpghttp://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/105/105_0_1597330111.jpg

malco
Malco
02 December, 2017 12:07
Just thought I'd nip in to try to clear up a couple of misconceptions.

First of all, it might be better to rename the thread "contract rumours", rather than "transfer rumours". The game may have changed a lot in recent years but we aren't football yet. It remains the case that the vast majority of players move clubs when their contracts expire, not for transfer fees.

Roko signed an extension last year.

I'm very certain that Stooke will sign up, if he hasn't already.

Banners has essentially been taken for granted. He's coming out of a five year contract. He signed that contract for a relatively low annual amount offset because of the long period, as a show of mutual commitment. Now that he is faced with a shorter renewal he naturally hoped for a higher annual amount. The club thought that he would bite their arms off for the same annual amount but for only one or two years. Other clubs have offered him longer contracts for higher salaries. Bath can't up the offer because they have already accounted for the rest of the cap and haven't built in contingency because they thought that he would just sign up.

So far as Spencer is concerned, a journalist recently told me that we are chasing after an EQP lock who is well known and highly regarded in the club. I've found that Spencer is coming out of contract and another journalist has told me that he is certain that he is looking to move to a bigger club to try to make a push for international caps. So, I don't know that we are chasing him, or that he is coming back, but putting two and two together, I wonder if that might be the case. I do know he was very upset at the way he was treated by the last coaching team, so if he did come back it would have to be with very firm commitment and plenty of assurances.

Auterac is, indeed, apparently off to Quins. I haven't heard anything about Tapuai but it wouldn't surprise me if he wasn't tempted elsewhere and if other clubs weren't prepared to greatly increase what he is currently earning.

I had heard that Sarries have identified Joseph as an ideal acquisition, but that's really no surprise, I imagine every club in Europe would identify him as a player they would like to get. I had heard he was having some personal issues a while back and that he was unsettled, but hopefully this has been resolved. If he did decide he wanted to move I would think that Sarries would be a very likely destination.

There is absolutely no prospect of Tadgh Furlong coming here and I would be amazed if he went anywhere. It's hard to imagine Launchbury leaving Wasps, unless it was to head back to London. Lewington is a realistic target but will be the subject of a major bidding war involving half the premiership.

Dave Berko
Dave Berko
02 December, 2017 16:08
Quote:
Pie-Half
Just read an article suggesting 11 lions out of contract in the summer. If true
CJ Stander
Haskell
Tadgh Furlong
Cips
o'Mahony
Goneva
Alex Lewington
Rory Best
Iain Henderson
Launchbury
Afoa
Foden
Jared Payne
Rocco ( though above said he has signed, so brings whole article into doubt)
J Roberts
Johnny Gray (Briz??)
AWJ
Christian Wade
Cuthbert
Banners (discussed above)

From that list, i'd love to keep Rocco and bannners and then pick up Furlong, Gray, Wade, Henderson, and big Joe L.

However, before i get shot down, it may jjust be foundationless clickbait.


C'mon - Sarries will sign them all. We smash the celery cap more than anyone!!!

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
02 December, 2017 16:16
Not sure you cleared up anything Malco, you have basically repeated things on this thread or in the Chron with no actual definitive points?

Rolfs_Cartoon_Club
@Hydor18
02 December, 2017 16:33
As posted earlier, Launchbury has re-signed with Wasps.

by
by
02 December, 2017 17:17
Thanks for the input Malco, apologies for the title.

I just can't understand how we are at the cap, we've got some quality sure but no more than other teams within the premiership.

malco
Malco
02 December, 2017 17:49
The point is that it’s not about our spend now, it is about our commitment for next season.

sid the seagull
sid the seagull
02 December, 2017 17:58
Well if we haven't signed/resigned certain folk yet e.g. Tapui (or the rest in the possible list) how can we say that there is no room to increase the offer to Banahan?
A. We can't.
So if you were MB you'd feel like that sounded very much like thanks but FO.

HOP

ballsout
ballsout
02 December, 2017 18:50
Quote:
BathMatt53
Not sure you cleared up anything Malco, you have basically repeated things on this thread or in the Chron with no actual definitive points?

Yep, that made me laugh

annie blackthorn
annie blackthorn
02 December, 2017 19:06
I would be amazed if Banahan didn't sign up - eventually - typical of Bath Rugby to not up the ante - he is worth so much more than his actual performance on the pitch. Don't be stupid, Tarquin or whoever negotiates - of course he isn't worth what some players are, but fgs, hang on to him. p.s. I am not his auntie.

dcsh
dcsh
03 December, 2017 07:50
Quote:
malco
The point is that it’s not about our spend now, it is about our commitment for next season.
So who is next seasons spend commitment for? Players that have already re-signed or additional players that haven’t been announced yet?

ELT
ELT
03 December, 2017 09:11
According to Fissler in TRP this morning, we are in a fight with Newcastle and Irish to sign Sam Hidalgo-Clyne from Edinburgh. He is, apparently, unhappy at being left out of the Scottish squad. A decision is expected before Christmas. Make of that what you will.

Fissler also reports that Toby Booth has turned down Cardiff Blues and is staying with Bath.

malco
Malco
03 December, 2017 09:44
Quote:
dcsh
Quote:
malco
The point is that it’s not about our spend now, it is about our commitment for next season.
So who is next seasons spend commitment for? Players that have already re-signed or additional players that haven’t been announced yet?

Both. Plus players of a certain standard in significant positions who they may not have signed yet, but who they know approximately how much money they need to set aside for.

dcsh
dcsh
03 December, 2017 10:53
Thanks Malco, it must be a fascinating and complex balance to strike.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/12/2017 11:01 by dcsh.

wilshd
wilshd
03 December, 2017 20:55
We have made an expensive marquee player signing for next year.

Bathovalballer
Bathovalballer
03 December, 2017 21:05
Sincerely hope its a forward.

wilshd
wilshd
03 December, 2017 21:31
It is. With a tonne of caps.

BathBurger
BathBurger
03 December, 2017 21:43
Is this Paz? Or another who you can't name yet?

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
03 December, 2017 21:45
Caps from a tier 1 nation? Assuming that TF is one marquee then how does that rationalise with the contract of our other?

dcsh
dcsh
03 December, 2017 21:55
The assumption has been that FL and TF are the current marquee, who are both contracted for next season I believe. I think marquee players are declared once a season, rather than for their whole contract. So presumably a current marquee could become counted in the cap next season, but that would reduce the amount that could be spent on other non-marquee players.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
03 December, 2017 22:01
Yes, so a higher marquee pushes the other into the cap which could potentially be a big old hit on the budget. I’m going to say AWJ or Richie Gray, for no particular reason other than I understand that they are out of contract. Mind you if it’s a marquee I can maybe just say Retallick or Etzabeth, because it’s nice to dream.

MESSAGES->author
shipwrecked
03 December, 2017 22:22
Are you sure its second row Matt? Etzabeth would be amazing and he fits the SA selection criteria with 30 caps but its a big signing if it is.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
03 December, 2017 22:28
Has to be someone who commands a salary higher than one of our existing marquee players, so they have to be on a big old wedge. I can’t see us signing another top back row or hooker, so porp or 2nd row I assume. When our existing porps are back and the new guy from Argentina at loosehead i think that it is 2nd row where we need it the most, personally (of the forward positions)



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/12/2017 22:34 by BathMatt53.

by
by
03 December, 2017 22:39
I can't see it being another second row if we've already signed Spencer, must be a centre or wing.

Our pack is already one of the strongest in the premiership, just that we've missed 2-3 first choice players in our tight 5 for over a year.

MESSAGES->author
plong
03 December, 2017 22:42
Etzebeth's in the country at the moment, coincidentally...



Adopted Players
2017-18: Sam Underhill
2016-17: Will Homer

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
03 December, 2017 22:52
Quote:
by
I can't see it being another second row if we've already signed Spencer, must be a centre or wing.
Our pack is already one of the strongest in the premiership, just that we've missed 2-3 first choice players in our tight 5 for over a year.

Malco didn’t say it was Spencer but had speculated that it could be. Assume it would be based on Atwood and Stooke long term plans.

It was mentioned above that it is a forward.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
03 December, 2017 23:07
Won't be a current All Black ahead of RWC. Creevy?

MESSAGES->author
BathSalmon
04 December, 2017 01:44
Quote:
wilshd
It is. With a tonne of caps.

Wonder if this is quite literal? How many forwards currently playing with a 100+ caps that we would want to sign?

Bath Hammer
Bath Hammer
04 December, 2017 07:34
I hope we don’t use all our salary cap on another international who is away or injured most of the time & lose match winners like Banahan & stalwarts like Stooke. That is not something which Exeter would do for good reason.

gaz59
gaz59
04 December, 2017 08:38
I'm not getting excited by the rumors even if develop into news - we have the squad in quality and depth to be strong top 4 and possibly better

Whether by deliberate strategy or through player mindset if we continue to play with a slow, passive/submissive defence line and fail to compete at breakdown we will always fall short of the likes of Exeter, Sarries, Tiggers and now Glaws - doesn't matter how many super-capped internationals we have on the pitch

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
04 December, 2017 09:34
Quote:
gaz59
I'm not getting excited by the rumors even if develop into news - we have the squad in quality and depth to be strong top 4 and possibly better
Whether by deliberate strategy or through player mindset if we continue to play with a slow, passive/submissive defence line and fail to compete at breakdown we will always fall short of the likes of Exeter, Sarries, Tiggers and now Glaws - doesn't matter how many super-capped internationals we have on the pitch

Yes, the deficiencies in our play at the moment are not due to the lack of quality individuals, or not mainly anyway.

Olly_L
BathLad
04 December, 2017 10:01
[s]
Quote:
gaz59
Whether by deliberate strategy or through player mindset if we continue to play with a slow, passive/submissive defence line and fail to compete at breakdown we will always fall short of the likes of Exeter, Sarries, Tiggers and now Glaws

We have won 10 out of 14 games this season, multiple excellent performances vs very good sides and most of which with very little possession, Tigers and Sarries have both submitted to us so i wouldn't go claiming we fall short vs these teams. Newcastle would be the one game that THIS season i'd say our D was passive and ineffective.

Just to let you know our line speed wasn't an issue this weekend vs Exe, we hit up pretty hard against a super quick attack which specialises in rejuvenating quick ball through more phases than absolutely everyone in Europe. They're especially dangerous when they go second or third receiver in behind the usual attacking line (allowing to get outside the wide rushing defenders) and so we couldn't blitz as hard as we maybe could vs Toulon (who play flat and hard with big ball carriers) as the outside channels become susceptible against the ball out the back.

Secondly, a lack of competition at the breakdown. Blame the new rules. Exeter go 15 men out, Most teams go 15 out these days. We've of course missed Louw but every team in Europe would be aided by his breakdown nous, so theres no claim here either. Also specifically vs Exeter competition is exceptionally hard as the ball carrier ALWAYS squeezes the ball and ensures maximum body length on the floor almost totally nullifying competition. Its a tactic they've used for years and i'm still unsure why no other club uses it, but they do at every breakdown even with dominant contacts where competition wouldn't normally be possible.

Where we struggled defensively this weekend was the speed of ball they had, which is almost impossible to stop due to the inability to truly slow ball down these days, as well as the amount of time several forwards spent on the floor after contact. This instantly meant we were down players in the line as they picked and went round the corners we were lacking our biggest and heaviest defenders more more than half the phases, Players like Zach aren't every going to stop Thomas the Tank or Harry Williams from close range.

Please before you generalise what looks a negative defensive performance with scripted BS from several years ago. Find a new script, this year we've been positively improved, although maybe not backing ourselves to attack from within our half nor take risks and chances to possibly destroy oppositions defence as we did in the last 20. Exeter take most teams to the cleaners, they were especially motivated this weekend to have a good start as we'd snatched a win last season. Post your rubbish on the game thread where people go for a moan and whinge after a bad result, people shouldn't allow it to spread through the whole website.

On the transfers, doubt we'll sign a big international player with "a tonne of caps". Cap doesn't increase and if TB had the cap he'd have improved what he has with a couple of squad players in the centres. So unless we're losing a big name. It's unlikely, but id take an international 12.

BathMatt53
BathMatt53
04 December, 2017 10:03
Quote:
BathLad

On the transfers, doubt we'll sign a big international player with "a tonne of caps". Cap doesn't increase and if TB had the cap he'd have improved what he has with a couple of squad players in the centres. So unless we're losing a big name. It's unlikely, but id take an international 12.

It is mentioned above that it would be a marquee, its for next season, and its a forward.

annie blackthorn
annie blackthorn
04 December, 2017 10:04
Too right Gaz!

I do wonder if this isn't all rather losing the point! is it all becoming a bit too like footie, where an overseas mega star paid player is bought to sell more tickets? Maybe I'm oldfashioned but I thought a successful rugby union team was one of 15 players drawn from a united squad with a skilled and successful coaching team? (Sm145)

MESSAGES->author
hasta
04 December, 2017 10:10
I agree with a lot of that analysis, but fundamentally think you're incorrect about line speed (in first half) against Ex. Getting ground down in the 22 is one thing - it's what Exeter do - but we gave them way too many easy yards in midfield, that's where the linespeed was at fault. It improved significantly in that area in the second half.

While the BP certainly doesn't excuse the first 60 performance - what was clear was the team sniffed an opportunity to get something out of the match, went for it and actually got it. It's been a while since you could say that about Bath. Ironically, Ex tried the kep-ball tactics that were our downfall against Newcastle and Gloucester - and they weren't able to execute them correctly either. OK, in their case the stakes and result were lower, but the point stands. The power and intensity in the last 10 were excellent. No team will sustain that intensity for a full game, what we have to fix is the 20-40 minute periods of way too low intensity - that ultimately cost us the match vs Newcastle/Glaws/Chiefs.

Danchinho
Danchinho
04 December, 2017 10:12
Anyone claiming we've put in multiple excellent performances this season or, indeed last, has been watching someone else imo.



I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
04 December, 2017 10:13
Tigers (a)
Sarries (h)
Wasps (a)
Scarlets (a)
Quins (h)

Multiple.

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
04 December, 2017 10:16
I cant remember most of those, but apart from the first 15 minutes against Quins I wouldnt call that an excellent performance

gaz59
gaz59
04 December, 2017 10:17
Must be a problem with my tele then because it sure as heck looked mainly slow, ponderous and passive from my sofa. Yes there were some fairly quick and hard up at time, Obano certainly was noticeable but Chiefs always seemed to gain several, hard but simple metres every time

But agree with the defensive inability to slow the Exeter ball though Zach was selected over Louw so we knew there would be a problem there but I failed to see our solution or counter strategy

We had same problem with Glaws as well as Newcastle

Not always the case this year as we showed real aggression and attacking defence at Welford and against Sarries at home that put those sides under retreating pressure and forcing errors but if we don't regain that then we will struggle to secure 6th spot let alone compete for play-offs

Danchinho
Danchinho
04 December, 2017 10:18
Tigers and Sarries were lucky. Excellent results but not excellent performances. Awesome 20 minutes against Quins. Mind you, if we fell off as many tackles as they did there would be hell on.



I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

Boldangrey
Boldangrey
04 December, 2017 10:20
Quote:
hasta
Tigers (a)
Sarries (h)
Wasps (a)
Scarlets (a)
Quins (h)

Multiple.

Multiple excellent results, but with good and dreadful periods in almost every one.

Danchinho
Danchinho
04 December, 2017 10:21
[quote hasta]Tigers (a)
Sarries (h)
Wasps (a)
Scarlets (a)
Quins (h)

./quote]

Surprised you haven't mentioned the last 20 minutes against Exeter as being 'excellent'.

Olly_L
BathLad
04 December, 2017 10:21
Quote:
Danchinho
Tigers and Sarries were lucky. Excellent results but not excellent performances. Awesome 20 minutes against Quins. Mind you, if we fell off as many tackles as they did there would be hell on.

Sarries was an excellent performance. The didn't have a sniff until Faletau was binned. Yes Rocco won it late but we led comfortably prior to the yellow card

Olly_L
BathLad
04 December, 2017 10:23
[quote Danchinho][quote hasta]Tigers (a)
Sarries (h)
Wasps (a)
Scarlets (a)
Quins (h)

./quote]

Surprised you haven't mentioned the last 20 minutes against Exeter as being 'excellent'.[/quote]

So who've put 80 mins up against us this season? or minimum whats the best 80 min performance you've seen this year? Exe certainly didn't put one out this weekend, nor last vs Sarries.

Kidney Stone
Kidney Stone
04 December, 2017 10:41
Quote:
malco
Banners has essentially been taken for granted. He's coming out of a five year contract. He signed that contract for a relatively low annual amount offset because of the long period, as a show of mutual commitment. Now that he is faced with a shorter renewal he naturally hoped for a higher annual amount. The club thought that he would bite their arms off for the same annual amount but for only one or two years. Other clubs have offered him longer contracts for higher salaries. Bath can't up the offer because they have already accounted for the rest of the cap and haven't built in contingency because they thought that he would just sign up.

If this is 100% true, then that says all you need to know about the naivety and arrogance of the management team. In any other business, his performances over the last 3 years would have flagged his leaving as a real risk and a countermeasure put in place.

On another note, Will Spencer. C'mon, really? We do not need him.

MESSAGES->author
woodpecker
04 December, 2017 10:47
Quote:
Kidney Stone
Quote:
malco
Banners has essentially been taken for granted. He's coming out of a five year contract. He signed that contract for a relatively low annual amount offset because of the long period, as a show of mutual commitment. Now that he is faced with a shorter renewal he naturally hoped for a higher annual amount. The club thought that he would bite their arms off for the same annual amount but for only one or two years. Other clubs have offered him longer contracts for higher salaries. Bath can't up the offer because they have already accounted for the rest of the cap and haven't built in contingency because they thought that he would just sign up.

If this is 100% true, then that says all you need to know about the naivety and arrogance of the management team. In any other business, his performances over the last 3 years would have flagged his leaving as a real risk and a countermeasure put in place.

On another note, Will Spencer. C'mon, really? We do not need him.

He was actually very good when we played Worcester

Boldangrey
Boldangrey
04 December, 2017 10:49
He was very good when he played for us, but had a long series of injuries.

malco
Malco
04 December, 2017 10:49
Quote:
Kidney Stone
Quote:
malco
Banners has essentially been taken for granted. He's coming out of a five year contract. He signed that contract for a relatively low annual amount offset because of the long period, as a show of mutual commitment. Now that he is faced with a shorter renewal he naturally hoped for a higher annual amount. The club thought that he would bite their arms off for the same annual amount but for only one or two years. Other clubs have offered him longer contracts for higher salaries. Bath can't up the offer because they have already accounted for the rest of the cap and haven't built in contingency because they thought that he would just sign up.

If this is 100% true, then that says all you need to know about the naivety and arrogance of the management team. In any other business, his performances over the last 3 years would have flagged his leaving as a real risk and a countermeasure put in place.

On another note, Will Spencer. C'mon, really? We do not need him.

It depends on a number of other factors. We don't know how Banahan is bearing up physically. 31 isn't old in anybody's language but it is starting to get on a bit for a big winger who has never been renowned for his pace and who has a lot of miles on the clock. He certainly isn't a long-term prospect. Would it be wise to take a punt and offer him three more years? We don't know who else might be lined up for the position. We don't know if the coaches want a different type of player for a different style of play. We don't know if the cap is essential for a player who will absolutely transform the team into a trophy winner. There are too many variables involved and at the end of the day a player is a component of a team and no played in inexpendable.

I think Spencer would be an inspired acquisition. He has all the physical attributes and technical qualities to play international rugby and he has shown that over the last two years at Worcester. I have absolutely no evidence that he is coming back.

Danchinho
Danchinho
04 December, 2017 10:56
What happened during Spencer's spell at Bath? It was before I started watching rugby.



I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

MESSAGES->author
hasta
04 December, 2017 10:58
Quote:
Danchinho
Quote:
hasta
Tigers (a)
Sarries (h)
Wasps (a)
Scarlets (a)
Quins (h)


Surprised you haven't mentioned the last 20 minutes against Exeter as being 'excellent'.

You asked for excellent performances, not perfect ones. Sarries was excellent, Quins at home we absolutely spanked them then shut up shop and closed the game out. Scarlets away was a superb result against the Pro 12 champions. If you're disappointed with the performance for us winning at Welford Road for the first time in 14 years then I'd say your expectations are completely out of line.

malco
Malco
04 December, 2017 11:01
Quote:
Danchinho
What happened during Spencer's spell at Bath? It was before I started watching rugby.

He came through our academy and sustained a string of serious injuries which meant he never met his potential. He was upset about the way he believed he had been treated by Mike Ford, who never gave him an opportunity, even when he was fit. He left for Worcester two years ago, took a little while to get fit and find his feet and since then has been absolutely outstanding.

Danchinho
Danchinho
04 December, 2017 11:05
Thanks.
He did look very good when I saw him.
Is he a good scrummaging lock?



I probably don't know what i'm talking about.

Bath Hammer
Bath Hammer
04 December, 2017 11:06
I can’t imagine him being any better than Stooke who he may well replace.

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