AFTER SUGGESTIONS EARLIER this month that Munster’s JJ Hanrahan was close to signing for English Premiership side Northampton, it is being reported in France that Stade Francis have shown interest in the 22-year old.

According to L’Equipe, Thomas Savare, the Stade Francais president, and his director general visited Munster (the area, not the team) in person two weeks ago to cast their eye over Hanrahan.

The Kerry native is moving into the final six months of his current two-year contract with the southern province and, with Stade rumoured looking to offload Morne Steyn, Hanrahan is seen as a potential replacement for the South African.

While any potential move remains speculation for now, Munster head coach Anthony Foley has outlined his desire to keep Hanrahan – who can play out-half, centre and fullback – saying recently:

“I think everybody who’s seen JJ play understands the quality of player he is and why other teams would be going after him. It’s the same reason we want to keep him. A lot of the conversations are around what’s best for JJ to develop as a rugby player.”

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