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Halfpenny was one of the key men in the Lions' success during the summer. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
Rumours

Report - Halfpenny to visit Toulon this weekend

The Wales and Lions fullback is expected to fly in to talk about his future.

LEIGH HALFPENNY WILL fly to Toulon following Cardiff’s clash with Leinster tonight, according to French rugby newspaper Midi Olympique.

The report claims that the Lions’ player of the series is expected on the Mediterranean tomorrow morning, with a tour of Toulon’s training facilities and discussions about the player’s future on the schedule.

Halfpenny’s contract with the Cardiff Blues finishes at the end of the current season and he is coveted by clubs across Europe. His agent, Tim Lopez, is expected to make the trip to France with him this weekend and Toulon are keen to get this deal done at the earliest stage possible.

The fullback is expected to be named the IRB World Player of the Year for 2013, having helped Wales to a Six Nations title as well as performing heroics in Australia for the Lions.

With Jonny Wilkinson hanging up his boots at the end of the season, Toulon are in need of a reliable place-kicker and Halfpenny fits that bill better than anyone. The 24-year-old would replace Delon Armitage in the number 15 shirt for the Heineken Cup champions.

Meanwhile, Pro D2 club Lyon have confirmed that they have contacted Fijian winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca over a possible transfer. The 33-year-old is currently playing for Northland in New Zealand’s ITM Cup, having regained match fitness and shed excess weight. Caucau had previous spells in France with Agen and Toulouse.

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