Rugby Rumours: Racing for Read, Pau in for Smith, Webb returns and Wasps' Wings

Kieran Read, Ben Smith, Rhys Webb and Waisake Naholo
Kieran Read, Ben Smith, Rhys Webb and Waisake Naholo
©TRU

Racing for Read:

The big Rugby Union news this week outside of the Autumn international fixtures, is the location of Kieran Read's future within the game.

The All Black centurian has stated he won't be pursuing a contract extension in NZ, and Racing 92 have expressed their intent early in the 'race for Read'.

Pau in for Smith:

Top 14 side Pau have been very active in the transfer market, with alot of New Zealand stalwarts looking for a career change at the end of this Rugby World Cup.

There have been a few names thrown into the mix, but Ben Smith is someone they have approached before, in 2016, and seem set to land him come 2019.

Webb returns:

Rhys Webb's time at RC Toulonnais has been hampered by a hamstring injury, having only had 3 appearences for the French giants since his arrival this season.

Light in the 9 position Toulon have been forced to sign Baptiste Serin on a 3 year deal, giving Webb the opportunity to return to Wales and the Pro14 before the RWC.

Wasps' Wings:

With the recent departure of Christian Wade to pursue a career in the NFL, English Premiership side Wasps are on the look-out for a X-factor wing replacement.

They have dipped into the New Zealand rugby treasure trove, with Waisake Naholo top of the pile to make the leap overseas from the Highlanders..