Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall has admitted potential transfer target Chris Ashton is only “going to get better and better”.

The Premiership champions have been heavily linked with the England and Northampton Saints winger. Ashton is out of contract this summer and is free to talk to other clubs about a move.

Northampton have not made a new offer to the 24-year-old because, according to their director of rugby Jim Mallinder, Ashton’s agent doesn’t want to talk to them.

Sarries have not confirmed whether they have been in discussions with the prolific tryscorer but it is understood that they are the most likely destination if Ashton decides to leave the Saints.

McCall, who does not expect to make many signings for next season, said: “He’s an outstanding rugby player as everybody knows. He’s one of the best finishers in England. He’s young and is going to get better and better but we’re linked with a lot of players and when there is news to tell you about any signings we will let you know.

“I think we’re very fortunate. We’ve got the vast majority of our squad [tied up to contracts] and we want to keep the group together for a period of time.

"We don’t intend to chop and change much. We had to a couple of years ago and we’re pretty well settled. We’ve got a small bit of business to do but not much.”