Read's Paris deal on ice?
TRANSFER RUMOURS: Seems like Racing 92 is not the only candidate that has caught the eye of All Blacks captain Kieran Read.
According to RugbyPass the French club Racing 92 could be ditched at the altar as All Blacks captain weighs up another potential suitor for his services at the end of 2019.
RMC Sport is reporting that Parisian club Racing fears they may miss out Read as Japanese Top League clubs come to the table in search of his signature. He has signalled next year would be his last with the All Blacks, which has triggered an arms race for the Number 8 by overseas clubs.
The 33-year-old Read has faced significant layoffs due to back injuries in recent times that may prevent his ability to commit playing long-term, making a short-term agreement preferable.
The demands of the Top 14 would also be considered, making a trip to the less onerous Japanese Top League an attractive proposition.
The reports suggest that Read could join former All Black and Crusader Dan Carter at Kobelco Steelers, who won their first Top League title since the initial 2003/04 season last week with a convincing 55-5 win over Suntory. The Top League has a shorter season and less physical demands than European Rugby, as well as close proximity to New Zealand.
The French clubs are considering changing their recruitment laws to allow one marquee player to sit outside of the agreed salary cap, which could be made in time to counter offers from other competitions such as the Top League. If the laws are changed, it could spark an uncapped bidding war for Read to ensure he lands in France.
Meanwhile, the All Blacks received some good news as Ardie Savea confirmed he is staying in New Zealand after Rugby World Cup 2019.
While it was a tough decision to turn down overseas offers, Savea said the chance to continue to play for Wellington, the Hurricanes and All Blacks was an opportunity he could not turn down.
“Thank you to the fans for the on-going support. Can’t wait to get stuck into 2019 with my Canes brothers,”
In other news:
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