Bundee Aki reportedly in talks with Toulon over potential move

Ireland and Connacht rugby star Bundee Aki is reportedly in discussions with French Top 14 giants Toulon over a potential move.

The 34-year-old centre, who has spent a decade at Connacht, seems to be exploring new opportunities after earning his Irish citizenship last month.

According to reports from Midi Olympique, Toulon is keen to secure Aki’s services ahead of the 2025 season. Aki has been a stalwart at Connacht and a crucial part of the Ireland national team for seven years. However, at this stage of his career, the New Zealand-born player appears to be considering a fresh challenge abroad.

Toulon’s current number 13, Fainga’anuku, is set to return to the Crusaders after 18 months in France, opening up a prime opportunity for Aki to fill the vacant spot.

While it was initially believed that Aki’s contract with Connacht would end after the 2024/25 season, a report from the Irish Independent suggests that his deal actually runs until 2026.

This would mean that Toulon—or any other interested club—would need to negotiate a transfer fee to release him from his current contract.

Besides Toulon, Aki is also reportedly attracting interest from Biarritz and Aix, two other Top 14 clubs looking for a world-class centre.