Paul O'Connell's future post this autumn's World Cup is unclear. He might see out the remaining year of his contract with Munster, he might retire. In an interview with Alan Quinlan on RTÉ's Against the Head on Monday evening, the 35-year-old appeared uncertain himself, saying that it's something he talks about constantly with his family.
There is a third option for O'Connell also - a move away from Thomond Park. It is hard to imagine him playing for a club other than Munster but he has said previously that not moving aboard is a small regret of his.
Today's Irish Times adds some plausibility to this possible outcome. Gerry Thornley writes that Champions Cup finalists Toulon have targeted the Ireland captain to fill one of the second row positions in their team and will offer him a two-year contract. This is backed up by paper Var-matin which reports that Toulon are in "advanced talks" with O'Connell. It would be hard to begrudge the great man one final and undoubtedly lucrative contract which would accompany a move to the Top 14 giants.
Previously he has been linked with a transfer to Pau. The D2 side have secured promotion to the top tier of French rugby and already have strong Munster links with James Coughlan being joined next season by Paddy Butler and Sean Dougall. They have also cemented the signings of All Blacks Conrad Smith and Colin Slade for 2015/16.
Picture credit: Kenny Smith / SPORTSFILE
