Exeter boss Rob Baxter gives insight into Henry Slade contract negotiations

Exeter Chiefs boss Rob Baxter says he will sit down in the next month with England outside centre Henry Slade to discuss him taking up the option for a second year in his current deal.

Slade, 34, who has made 268 appearances for the Chiefs, is one of the last remaining members of the side that won the PREM and Champions Cup double six years ago.

And Baxter says that there are loads of reasons why Slade, who has won 78 England caps and started his career on a dual-registration at Plymouth Albion 15 years ago, will activate the clause and not finish his career with a lucrative move abroad or join one of their rivals.

“He isn’t out of contract. He’s got a one-plus-one. So, really, what were we doing? We’ll start discussing a month or so’s time before the deadline for year two comes into place, you know, what his plans are,” he said.

“It’s not a pure out-and-out situation at the moment that he’s off contract. Those discussions will happen in the coming weeks, months, and then we’re going to let you know.

“I think there’s a variety of things that can happen. Henry’s just been awarded an enhanced contract with England. So there’s lots of reasons for him to stay in this country. He’s clearly well thought of in the England camp.

“Obviously, he’s got a young family. as well established here. He’s playing very well currently for us. He’s got a good contract. There’s lots of reasons for him to take up his second year.

“But it will really be down to any contracts that happen, and if there’s any other offer that comes in that’s a better offer than playing for Exeter and staying in England. So some of this is out of my hands. So, we will see how things go over the next few weeks.”