Northampton Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson says the club is hopeful about securing a new contract with flanker Henry Pollock, describing the goal as finding a "happy medium" on a deal.

Agent Mark Hearn has put Pollock's value at around 1 million pounds per year, a figure widely reported as beyond what Saints are prepared to pay.

Dowson addressed the situation publicly, indicating the team is trying to find common ground. The goal, as he described it, is to land on terms that suits everyone involved.

The contract situation plays out as Northampton look ahead to an early Premiership fixture at Saracens, who host the Saints in their home opener. Alfie Barbeary has been named a player to watch in that match.

It remains to be seen whether the two sides can close the distance between what Pollock's camp is said to be asking for and what the club is willing to commit.