French sports newspaper Midi Olympique have thrown fuel on the first of speculation that two England internationals could soon arrive in the Top 14.
The story, headlined Englishmen Sam Simmonds and Mako Vunipola are arriving?, suggests that “Exeter and British Lions back-rower Simmonds could cross the Channel if Eddie Jones persists in ignoring his excellent club performances.”
Toulon, who recently bought Cheslin Kolbe out of his Toulouse contract, are thought to be the leader suitors for the number 8.
On Vunipola, their report states: “The powerful loose head has already started discussing an extension with his club, but his financial demands (around 460,000 Euros per season) could be too high for Sarries.
“The 30-year-old would interest several ambitious Top 14 clubs such as Lyon, Toulon, Stade Francais and Clermont.”
Four other England internationals linked with shock transfers this summer, including Tom Curry
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#1. Jonathan Joseph
The Rugby Paper reported at the start of May that the England and British Lions centre was in talks with Toulon about a switch to the Côte d’Azur this summer.
The deal appeared to be done when last weekend the former Top 14 and European champions announced the signing on their website only to take down the post minutes later.
DID YOU KNOW? Joseph attended Millfield School and came through the London Irish academy after he spent his teenage years playing at Newbury RFC