There’s Been Another Twist In The Potential Ben Smith To Munster Deal

Rassie Erasmus seems to be keeping his cards close to his chest.

It was reported this week that Munster were in line for an audacious swoop for All Blacks superstar Ben Smith. The fullback’s contract is set to expire this year and he is said to be exploring his options with a potential move to Europe on the cards.

Smith is regarded as one of the very best in the world, and certainly wouldn’t come cheap, with a host of big-spending French clubs set to be hot on his tail along with Munster. Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus poured cold water on the Munster rumours earlier this week, but it seems we’re far from done with this one.

The New Zealand Herald have now come out and contradicted Erasmus’ statement claiming that “few place any stock in the denial”. They even go as far as saying Munster have reportedly put an €800,000 a year offer on the table for the fullback.

The newspaper also claim that Pau have offered Smith €700,000 deal, leaving Munster out in front in the race for his signature. They also believe that Smith’s wife wants to spend some time in Europe and a move may very much be on the cards.