Reports have linked All Blacks star Ardie Savea with a potential move to the Dublin-based rugby club Leinster before the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This speculation follows Leinster's previous short-term agreements with players such as Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane.
The New Zealand Herald reported that Savea is experiencing significant dissatisfaction with the current New Zealand rugby setup, specifically pointing to issues within the All Blacks' hierarchy, including head coach Scott Robertson and assistant Scott Hansen. As a result, there are suggestions that Savea, currently with Japanese club Kobelco Kobe Steelers, might either stay in Japan or move to a European club, with Leinster being the only team mentioned in the reports.
Bernard Jackman, a former Ireland hooker, expressed skepticism regarding the Leinster links, suggesting they are more likely initiated by Savea's agent. Jackman acknowledged ongoing unrest within the All Blacks environment.
Former Munster fly-half Jonny Holland noted that while Leinster possesses strong back-row options, a world-class player like Savea would always be a desirable acquisition if financially feasible. Holland raised concerns about the Irish Rugby Football Union's (IRFU) potential intervention in such signings, questioning their benefit to overall Irish rugby.
Jackman concurred with the possibility of IRFU intervention, stating that Leinster may not currently be in the governing body's favor due to the Joey Carbery situation. Leinster is reportedly nearing a deal for Carbery, despite suggestions that the IRFU preferred him to join Ulster due to their depth needs at fly-half.