The source is credible, there's a bit of history there and all in all it's the kind of transfer rumour that makes a lot of sense. Simon Zebo to Toulouse could very much be on the cards. And make no bones about it, if it happens, it will be a huge blow to Munster.
He may have his critics when he pulls on a green jersey but, either as full-back or wing, an on-form Zebo makes every Irish match-day squad without question. Losing the influence of Paul O'Connell and the potential of J.J. Hanrahan, means that Zebo's departure would be particularly damaging for Munster, even more so when you consider Felix Jones' retirement.
You never want to lose quality players but now more than ever, Munster could do with holding on to the likes of Zebo. With that in mind, where has it all come from? Speaking on Off The Ball last night, Eddie O'Sullivan hinted at what all this may be about.
I can't imagine that the IRFU would let Simon Zebo leave.
He's an integral part of the team now, he's the number two full-back, he's one of the starting wings depending on which way the coach wants to go... I can't see him slipping away to France.
Zebo's contract is with Munster as opposed to the centralised IRFU contracts of some of his Ireland teammates. That three year contract is up in June and, as O'Sullivan was intimating, the rumours of a move very much put the ball into the IRFU's court.
While all of this is still very much conjecture, it would appear that the IRFU have a decision to make. Offer him a centralised contract or allow him to depart for the riches of the Top 14. While O'Sullivan believes the IRFU 'won't make it easy for him to go' there's a suggestion that they simply may not be able to match the offer.
You never know, some of the money floating around in the Top 14 is off the wall.
It seems this one may drag on for a few months yet.
