All Blacks winger Julian Savea is reportedly considering prematurely cutting ties at the Hurricanes.
According to NZME, the veteran of 101 appearances in yellow and black has a 'break' clause in his contract that kicks in this year which would allow him to leave his long-time franchise.
However it's only able to be enacted this year, at the halfway mark of his four-year deal with New Zealand Rugby, and strictly with another Super Rugby side.
Now struggling to earn selection to the Hurricanes' first choice team and facing ever-increasing challengers at his position, the 27-year-old may well decide it's time to look for opportunities elsewhere as he attempts to fight his way back into All Blacks consideration.
The Chiefs have reportedly registered their interest already, where the departing James Lowe would open up a direct pathway for Savea.
He's expected to feature frequently for the Wellington Lions in the upcoming national provincial competition starting on Saturday, and all reports suggest that he's far from giving up on the black jersey.
Once regarded as one of the best finishers in world rugby, the two-time Rugby World Cup winner is just three tries shy of equalling Doug Howlett's record of 49.
Newshub.
