Japanese Club Enter Race For Retallick's Signature

After denying claims of signing a world record £1m (NZ$1.9m) deal with with the Sale Sharks, All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick is now linked with a move to Japan.

Sale Sharks coach Steve Diamond has also rejected claims that his side are chasing the signature of the former World Player of the Year. 

New Zealand news outlet NZME is reporting Japanese club Kobelco Steelers are the latest to join the race for the 27-year-old's signature after this year's World Cup.

The report states that Kobelco is leading the race for Retallick's signature with the 73-test All Black likely to take a year-long sabbatical after the World Cup. Kiwi players Dan Carter, Richard Buckman and Andy Ellis are currently contracted to the squad.

While, former All Blacks assistant Wayne Smith is the club's general manager, with former Chiefs development manager Dave Dillon the head coach. 

Meanwhile, according to Midi Olympique, prop Owen Franks has turned down a deal from Toulon to join brother Ben at the Northampton Saints. The paper also reports that Waisake Naholo is close to signing with either London Irish or Wasps.