Toulon centre Malakai Fekitoa is set to turn down an extension at Toulon with his current deal up at the end of the season.
The big centre signed a two-year deal with Toulon in France and has just started the second year, helping set up a try in the weekend’s win over Agen.
The 26-year-old has been linked with a move home to try and make the All Blacks World Cup squad but tonight Rugby Inside Line has revealed Saracens are also interested.
TRANSFER RUMOUR: Hearing that it is unlikely that former All Back centre Malakai Fekitoa will re-sign for Toulon.
He has been linked to Saracens or a return to New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/GBvDgEjcm2
— RugbyInsideLine (@RugbyInsideLine) September 25, 2018
Fekitoa believes his game has evolved in France and it has taught him how to release all-consuming negative emotions that often burdened and stifled natural instincts.
”Being at home, you focus too much on rugby, and you’re too hard on yourself most of the time,” Fekitoa said.
”That’s what I’ve learned coming here, to enjoy rugby again.
”It’s not just me that has been through that. All the young guys coming through are always trying to be better every day. That’s a great thing but you can lose enjoyment. I get to realise there’s more to life than rugby.
”I feel I’m a lot better because at home, I tried really hard and sometimes things didn’t go my way.
”You go into your shell, you hide, and you go down and down because of your thoughts. It’s the pressure, too.
”Now I’m older, I’ve learned to have a life balance. I just wish I knew what I know now. The way I approach things now is different from before. That’s why I believe I’m better because I’m more comfortable.”