Sport

Nonu linked with move to Munster after rugby World Cup concludes

RUGBY NEWS: SPECULATION IS rifle in New Zealand that All Black Ma’a Nonu is to join Munster after the rugby World Cup.

MARTIN CRUMMY in Christchurch
Mon Dec 13 2010 - 00:00

RUGBY NEWS:SPECULATION IS rifle in New Zealand that All Black Ma'a Nonu is to join Munster after the rugby World Cup.

The 28-year-old is one of a number of All Blacks out of contract after the 2011 showpiece and he has been tipped as a prime target for Tony McGahan’s side.

Pointing to the fact the Irish province have former All Blacks Doug Howlett and Sam Tuitupou on their books, New Zealand media have lined up the utility back for a move to Thomand Park.

“Munster are after a world-class centre, and with Nonu coming off contract after the cup he is a prime target,” stated the Sunday Star Times.

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A number of the All Blacks’ squad are thought to have money-spinning moves to European rugby on their minds.

All Blacks coming off contract after the cup also include Dan Carter, John Afoa, Sonny Bill Williams, Richie McCaw, Josevata Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Ali Williams, Tony Woodcock, Neemia Tialata, Andy Ellis, Keven Mealamu, Piri Weepu and Brad Thorn.

Although there is a year to go before any All Blacks join European clubs, the NZRU want contracts sorted out sooner rather than later.

“We would like as much certainty around key guys as early as possible next year,” NZRU boss Steve Tew said. “The leading guys in the All Blacks want to clear this off their plate well in advance.”

Star fullback Mils Muliaina is already thought to be snowed under with offers from European clubs.

Welsh club Ospreys are leading the chase for Muliaina, with the Swansea-based side considering him as a replacement for Wales and Lions fullback Lee Byrne.

Clermont coach Vern Cotter wants to take Byrne to France but Ospreys will only allow the move if they can find a suitable replacement, and that’s where Muliaina fits in.

Other top European sides – including Leinster and Munster – have been mentioned as possible destinations, but France seems to be Muliaina’s first choice.

“Perhaps (I’ll go to France). It is a country I’ve always liked,” he said.

“I like French culture, French food and French wine. To play in France would be an opportunity difficult to refuse.

“I haven’t thought about where I’d play next but I’d never say never to coming to France.”