Rugby Rumours: Halfpenny, French Captaincy, Eastmond, Faletau
Wasps linked to another big name in Halfpenny:
Leigh Halfpenny is the latest household name to be linked with Wasps as director of rugby Dai Young outlines his intent to make high-calibre signings for next season.
Wasps lose All Black Charles Piutau to Ulster at the end of the season and will need a replacement, but a week after denying an offer has been tabled for Leicester wrecking-ball Manu Tuilagi, Young has distanced himself from Halfpenny.
"Leigh Halfpenny is an obvious one because of the Piutau situation - we have got Rob Miller as well, he is an England Saxon in his own right.
"I know Leigh really well. I was at Cardiff when he came through the system. We all know he is a quality player. So is Manu." Young said.
Guirado new French captain:
Guilhem Guirado is strong favourite to take over the role of French captain from stalwart Thierry Dusautoir.
Philippe Saint-Andre reached the last 8 with France in the RWC, but were put to the sword by New Zealand. Guirado is giving coach Saint-Andre time and space for this big descision.
"For now, I am not aware of anything. We will let the France staff take the time to think carefully" Guirado said.
Eastmond goes back to league:
Its been reported that Kyle Eastmond isn't happy with the current England situation in Union, he's one of the form centres in the Premiership and still isn't getting a look in at international level.
Will Eddie Jones change his fortunes, or could this be the final blow to Eastmond's hopes of another England cap that sends him cross-codes, back to league...?
Toby Faletau's on a nice number in Bath:
The 25-year-old is thought to be one of Bath's two marquee signings - Welsh compatriot Rhys Priestland is the other - ensuring his wages of £400,000 are not counted towards the £6.5million salary cap.
