Zebo on his way to France?

Munster are on high alert to retain the playing services of Ireland international Simon Zebo who is attracting interest from Section Paloise (Pau) in the French domestic top tier according to the Irish Independent.

The 27-year-old's contract at the Irish province is set to expire at the end of the season and the big-spending Top 14 side are hoping to lure the winger away from Thomond Park.

Three wins from their opening five games leave Pau lying in 9th position in the Top 14. Simon Mannix, a former assistant coach to Rob Penney at Munster, coaches the side and the Munster connection also includes Sean Dougall, Paddy Butler and Dave Foley among the playing staff.

The coaching situation at Munster remains unclear at present, as rumours intensify about who will succeed Rassie Erasmus, who is due to return home to South Africa to begin his new role as Springboks' Director of Rugby.

The 35-times capped international has been a regular in Joe Schmidt's team in the last two seasons but whether that puts him in contention for an IRFU contract remains to be seen.

Zebo has previously spoken openly about his desire to play in the Top 14 and previously turned down offers from Pau & Stade Francais to remain at his home province in 2016.