Irish rugby is preparing for life without Johnny Sexton, but bizarre reports this week suggest that his playing days may not be over just yet.
Sexton had long planned to retire after this year's World Cup, though he would have hoped to bow out under happier circumstances than he did in the quarter-final defeat to New Zealand.
The question now turns to what life after Ireland and Leinster will hold for the legendary out-half.
Sexton himself has spoken about his business commitments, with the 38-year-old lining up a full-time position with Ardagh Group.
A Sunday Times report last weekend made an unexpected suggestion that Sexton could be considered for a major coaching role with the Ireland team - but an even more outrageous one has now emerged, suggesting that he may even u-turn on his decision to retire.
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Johnny Sexton linked with move to Japan Rugby League One
Rugby site Ruck.co.uk are suggesting that a shock move to a Japanese side is attempting to sway Sexton out of retirement with a mega-money offer for the Irishman.
14 October 2023; Jonathan Sexton of Ireland reacts at the final whistle as Richie Mo'unga of New Zealand celebrates during the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final match between Ireland and New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris, France. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
The deal on offer is reportedly worth almost €1 million
Many legends of rugby have passed through the Japanese premier division in recent years, including All Black World Cup winners Kieran Read, Sonny Bill Williams, and Dan Carter, Aussie icon David Pocock, and Springbok world champion Fourie du Preez.
Two-time world player of the year Beauden Barrett is set to return to the league next season with Toyota Verblitz, and South African stars Faf de Klerk (Yokohama Canon Eagles) and Kwagga Smith (Shizuoka Blue Revs) continue to ply their trade in the league.
It is highly unlikely Johnny Sexton will be tempted by such an audacious offer to tempt him to the other side of the world, given he has spoken publicly about his desire to enjoy settled time with his family at home.
It would also complicate his tax status, as he'd likely have to give up his tax benefit from retiring, which is believed to in the region of €1mn.
Nonetheless, the rumour mill swirling around the Ireland legend shows the intrigue that continues to surround Sexton, and his next move is awaited eagerly by rugby fans.
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