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All Blacks Sam Whitelock chased by wealthy French club Toulon
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The locks current contract expires at the end of the season
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They’re also chasing All Black centre Malakai Fekitoa
Mourad Boudjellal, the president of rich French club Toulon, is reported to have sounded out All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock about a move to Europe.
Whitelock, who is off contract with NZ Rugby after the All Blacks’ series against the British and Irish Lions this winter, would be a prized signing for Toulon who are on the hunt for a world-class second rower to embed in their pack.
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They’ve also been linked with a move for All Black centre Malakai Fekitoa as they look to fill the void that will be left by Matt Giteau, who departs the three-time European champions.
If Boudjellal managed to snare the signature of the 28-year-old Whitelock, who has played 84 tests since 2010, it would be considered a blow for NZ Rugby. who have already lost flanker Steve Luatua to Bristol.
All Blacks captain Kieran Read has already signalled he is keen to re-sign through to the 2019 World Cup.
Toulon already have former All Blacks midfielder Ma’a Nonu on their books and French publication L’Equipe said another New Zealander – Whitelock – is also being targeted.