Bristol Bears are reported to be preparing a plan B should Steven Luatua not extend his stay at the club.
Former All Black Luatua joined the West Country club in the summer of 2017 from Super Rugby side the Blues on a two-year deal, helping the Bears to promotion in his first season.
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The backrower has captained Bristol in their first three Gallagher Premiership games and has become a firm fans favourite at Ashton Gate.
However, the Rugby Paper reports Bristol head coach Pat Lam is monitoring another world-class All Black to fill his shoes should he move on.
Victor Vito, who has 33 international caps for New Zealand, is considering his options as he comes to end of his current contract with French Top 14 side La Rochelle.
According to The Rugby Paper‘s sources in New Zealand the Blues are interested in bringing Luatua, 27, back to Auckland.