Million Pound Carter?

 

European media is awash with speculation around Carter as the veteran No.10's future beyond next year's World Cup continues to grab headlines.

 

All the various sources were tipping glamour Paris outfit Racing Metro to lure Carter back to the French competition after his painful previous experience of an injury-plagued sabbatical in 2009 with Perpignan.

 

The Times suggested Carter 'is close to becoming rugby's first £1 million man' with Racing Metro owner Jacky Lorenzetti prepared to 'break the bank' for a move that would finally end Carter's All Blacks career.

 

Lorenzetti has made no secret of his desire to get Carter, saying back in September: "If the coaches agree, Dan Carter may be an opportunity to strengthen the club next season."

 

That has now gathered pace and it's been suggested the deal could be confirmed as early as next week.

 

Racing are in the market for a No.10 with Irish star Jonathan Sexton returning to his homeland to play for Leinster next season where he will replace former Hurricanes and Blues playmaker Jimmy Gopperth.

 

Racing have signed French flyhalf Remi Tales from Castres but clearly still cherish Carter's signature.

 

That comes despite Carter, 32, continuing to struggle with injuries and form for the Crusaders and the All Blacks.

 

He needs a good season next year to confirm his All Blacks place as younger rivals Aaron Cruden, Colin Slade and Beauden Barrett continue to press their claims for a jersey that a fit Carter has owned, making 102 test appearances and scoring a world record 1455 points.

 

Carter is primed to head a mass migration of senior All Blacks after the World Cup where they will try to defend the title won at home in 2011.

 

Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu and even captain Richie McCaw are all logical targets as clubs eye leading New Zealand experience.