Munster look set to lose their World Cup winning second-row Jean Kleyn at the end of the season, if reports are to be believed.
French publication Midi Olympique have said that Lyon have identified Kleyn as their top target to replace outgoing French international lock, Roman Taofifenua, who is leaving for Racing 92 next season.
Kleyn enjoyed his best season to date in 2022/23, and was Munster's standout player in their journey to being crowned URC champions, before his call-up to the Springboks.
Munster Need To Plan For Life Without Jean Kleyn
Due to his allegiances switching to South Africa, Kleyn is now an NIQ player, and with his contract running out at the end of the 2023/24 season, and the NIQ RG Snyman also on the books, it will be difficult to keep him.
Given that they could also lose the services of the world class Snyman, the continued development of youngsters Edwin Edogbo and Tom Ahern could be crucial the province's aspirations over the coming years.
READ HERE: Just One Ireland Player In Famed French Publication’s Rugby World Cup Best XV
READ HERE: Jean Kleyn: The South Africa Lock Who's Played For And Will Be Against Ireland In Paris
3 March 2023; RG Snyman, left, and Jean Kleyn of Munster after the United Rugby Championship match between Munster and Scarlets at Musgrave Park in Cork. Photo by Tom Beary/Sportsfile
"It’s been a whirlwind,” said Kleyn, after lifting the World Cup with the Springboks last month.
“I think something Rassie said to me when he called me was: ‘I’m about to screw up your holiday’. And he definitely screwed up my holiday, but he gave me an opportunity I never thought I’d have.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Rassie and Jacques, the entire coaching team for believing in me and giving me this opportunity, and all my teammates. It’s been such a privilege and a pleasure in being part of this amazing dream.”
“It was as easy as anything, it was riding a bike. It was coming home. I had zero expectations, I just thought it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
“What a privilege to be able to play for my country of birth. It’s a dream you grow up thinking: ‘one day, I’d like to do that’. It’s a little boy’s dream. It’s incredible.
“I haven’t checked my phone, but to be honest it was very tough keeping track of everything before I started. Listen, the support from home as I call it – Limerick is my home now – is incredible and I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support I’ve received, it’s been unreal.”
SEE ALSO: From Cork Hurling To Munster Rugby: The Journey Of Ben O'Connor
