English clubs told to splash the cash if they want to bring Steffon Armitage back to the Premiership

PREMIERSHIP clubs have been told they will need to break the bank to sign Steffon Armitage.

Mega-rich Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal owner confirmed to French TV that the world-class flanker and former European player-of-the-year has asked to leave the Top 14 side to play for England.

Red Rose boss Eddie Jones has been in touch with the 30-year-old about coming home to represent his country — and the former London Irish star is desperate to add to his five caps.

Bath were keen to land Armitage last season and Wasps have also been in touch with him this year.

However, his £500,000-a-year wage could cause a major headache for Premiership club with the current salary cap.

Boudjellal said: “Steffon came to see me to say that he had the opportunity to play with the England team, that Eddie Jones had called him.

“He’s asked to leave Toulon and go and play in an English club and for the England team. It’s his ambition so why not.

“He is under contract though and I have no intention of playing Father Christmas because there’s no reason I should have feelings for English teams. I am ready to let him leave but that has a price and it’s expensive.”