Barwell admits Northampton may have to look overseas to sign new forwards

Northampton chairman Keith Barwell has confirmed the club is seeking to strengthen its pack of forwards in time for the start of next season.

Scotland prop Euan Murray agreed a new contract earlier this month, but coach Jim Mallinder believes more recruitment is needed to bolster the front row.

"I would be surprised if we don't sign two or three excellent players," Barwell told BBC Radio Northampton.

However, he did admit to missing out on flanker Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe.

The Argentine's brother Ignacio already plays at Franklin's Gardens, but Juan Martin opted instead to join the exodus of players to France and signed for Toulon.

"It's no secret that we were interested in him, and we offered him significantly more than he's getting (with Sale Sharks) at the moment," added Barwell.

"But Toulon offered twice the amount we did, so it just wasn't possible.

"We also missed out on (Newcastle's) David Wilson, who went to Bath.

"So if we finish up with a couple of big Argentines or Italians it'll just be because there aren't the English guys filling those places at the moment."

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