Sexton linked with shock move back to Top14

Leinster and Ireland fly-half Johnny Sexton is being linked with a shock return to France, with Lyon reportedly keen to lure the 34-year-old back to the Top14.

Lyon, who currently lead the Top14, are set to be in the market for a fly-half with Jonathan Wisnieswski, also 34, expected to retire at the end of the season.

And according to reports in France, Sexton tops Lyon's list of potential replacements. Midi Olympique state that the French side are also considering moves for Wasps' Lima Sopoaga Australia's Bernard Foley, who is contracted with Japan's Kubota Spears, but that Sexton is their main target.

If Lyon were to move for Sexton, they would need to buy the 2018 World Player of the Year out of his current IRFU contract.

Sexton is currently nursing a knee ligament injury, and at 34, new Ireland head coach could be temped to turn to Munster's Joey Carbery as his first choice No10 for the 2020 Six Nations.

Sexton has previous experience of the Top14, having played with Racing 92 from 2013 to 2015, where he enjoyed a mixed return during two trophy-less seasons.

Any move to France would likely end his international career. Ireland have not selected any overseas players since Sexton's return to Leinster from Racing, with Simon Zebo, Donnacha Ryan and Ian Madigan all being overlooked for selection since moving from their home provinces.

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