BUNDEE AKI is in talks for a shock move to France, according to reports.
The Connacht and Ireland centre’s central contract with the IRFU is set to expire next summer.
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Bundee Aki has been linked with a move to ToulonCredit: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
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Aki’s central contract with the IRFU is set to expire next summerCredit: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
And according to Midi Olympique in France, the 34-year-old is being targeted by Toulon.
The report suggests that Aki is being lined up as replacement for Leicester Fainga’anuku and Duncan Paia’aua, both of whom are apparently leaving the club.
As per Midi Olympique, the Top14 giant’s pursuit of the Ireland international has been aided by him having not yet been offered an extension by the IRFU.
Toulon’s interest would give the IRFU a headache when it comes to considering whether or not to offer Aki a new central contract.
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He turns 35 next April, the same age as Peter O’Mahony whose own status led to a protracted saga that ultimately ended with him penning a new one-year deal with Munster.
He has become a firm fan favourite since he made his debut for Connacht in 2014, before making his international bow in 2017.
Aki was nominated as World Rugby Player of the Year in 2023, and carried that form into 2024.
He helped Andy Farrell’s men retain the Six Nations title, and was nominated for Player of the Tournament as well as being one of eight Ireland players named in the Team of the Tournament.
The father-of-four is well settled in Ireland and became a citizen back in September.
Aki is one of a number of Ireland stars who have been linked with sensational, big money moves to France.
Leinster out-half Ross Byrne has been linked with a surprise move with his game time limited since the emergence of Ciaran Frawley.
Moment Bundee Aki wildly celebrates topless alongside Craig Casey in bar after Ireland second test win over South Africa
Montpellier are understood to be interested in the Dubliner after the end of the 2024/25 season – once again according to Midi Olympique.
The 29-year-old’s provincial teammate Jack Conan has also been the subject of speculation concerning a move away.
The Ireland and Leinster 8 has attracted interest from Racing 92, according to the Irish Independent and RugbyPass.
The Wicklow man’s contract is believed to be running up at the end of the 2024/25 season.
And Stuart Lancaster, who worked with Conan during his time as Leinster coach, is understood to be eyeing up a move for the 32-year-old.
Racing 92 are in the market for a replacement for Siya Kolisi, after the World Cup-winning Springbok moved to the Sharks for a reported €750,000 fee.
The French club are facing a battle from Leinster themselves for Conan’s signature, with the Irish Independent reporting that the province are preparing a fresh contract offer.
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Publish date : 2024-10-25 11:02:31
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