Danny Cipriani is reportedly keen on a return to the northern hemisphere

May 01, 2011
Toulon have claimed that reports linking them with a move for Danny Cipriani are pure speculation but admitted that they are in the market for a fly-half.

Cipriani is currently plying his trade in Australia with the Melbourne Rebels and still has a year to run on his contract with the Super Rugby outfit.

It has been claimed that he is keen to return to the northern hemisphere and Toulon has been mooted as a possible destination for the former England international as they require cover for Jonny Wilkinson and Matt Giteau during the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.

However, Toulon team manager Tom Whitford would not confirm whether an approach has been made for the player.

"Danny has a good pedigree but it is all speculation at the moment," he told BBC Sport. "We are looking for a 10 who can play in the Top 14 during the World Cup.

"We are in contact with numerous players. I can't confirm as such whether we have been in contact with Cipriani's representatives or not, but he is obviously a talented player, and we try to sign talented players who would bring a lot to the team.

"Cipriani is a high-profile player, not just on the pitch but off it as well. We would like to concentrate on players performing on the pitch but of course he is a good player, he has a good pedigree and he has played for England."