Out of contract in 2019: The best rugby players who will be free agents at the end of the season

7. Sonny Bill Williams – Blues

It would be understandable for 33-year-old Williams to want to cap a stellar career at the conclusion of the showpiece tournament in Japan, but he insists he still has plenty more to give on the field. The 51-test veteran told the Sydney Morning Herald that he still has a burning desire to continue playing rugby at the highest level, and is refusing to rule out another code switch.

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8. Rhys Priestland – Bath Rugby

Priestland joined the Club in 2015 and has made over 60 appearances for the Blue, Black and White since his arrival from Welsh side Scarlets. He is likely to return to Wales...

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9. Willie le Roux – Wasps

Wasps full-back Willie le Roux will head for the exit at the Premiership club come the end of the current season. The South Africa international will end a three-year stay at the Ricoh Arena and has long been linked with a big-money move to Japan or a possible return to his homeland. Nothing has been confirmed.

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10. David Pocock – Brumbies

Pocock’s manager, Brian Levine, said the flanker turned down lucrative offers from overseas because of his “strong belief” in the direction of the Wallabies under coach Michael Cheika. However, with his contract expiring soon, it’ll be interesting to see if that opinion has changed…