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Only days after a scintillating performance against France, Waratahs and Wallabies star Israel Folau has been linked to a move to wealthy and high-profile French club Toulon.
French rugby newspaper Midi Olimpique published a report on Monday that Folau had opened talks with Toulon.
This follows a report from late May that one of Australia’s most sought after players could be on his way back to the NRL, after being linked with a move to Parramatta.
Where this new report places Folau’s preferences is anyone’s guess.
The Wallabies fullback has reportedly begun negotiations with the Top 14 and European Cup champions. This, however, shouldn’t impact Australia’s World Cup campaign with Folau signed with Australian rugby until the end of 2015.
George Gregan, George Smith, Matt Giteau and Drew Mitchell are just some of the Aussie names who’ve graced Toulon’s stacked list in the past, to go with Sonny Bill Williams, Jonny Wilkinson, Tana Umaga and Victor Matfield.
While some notables – Matfield and Sonny Bill Williams – have escaped the Toulon fray and returned as promised most do not. This report comes after Boujellal revealed a plan last month to sign who he described as the “fantastic four” of world rugby.
“In a year, I will try to do the biggest thing I’ve ever done [in the transfer market],” Boujellal told Eurosport. “I have an idea in my head, a crazy idea; I will try to make it happen.
“There are ‘quatre fantastiques’ in the rugby world, I truly want to do that Grand Slam.”
The Toulon coach didn’t name the four players he had in mind.
Folau was approached by French reporters on the prospect of playing in France.
“I love this opportunity to travel through rugby and play places I would never go if I played league or Australian Rules,” Folau said.
“I think this is one of the best things in rugby: for example you the opportunity to play in France or Japan.
“I think at one time or another in my career I will go one way or another. I cannot wait to see the different doors that could be opened for me in the future.
“But for now, I feel very well and I really Waratahs a good place in the Wallabies.”
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.