Ireland are very worried about losing Bundee Aki at the end of his current contract

The 34-year-old recently signed a one-year contract extension following the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but there are growing concerns within the IRFU that Aki could leave after the 2024/25 season.

Sources close to RUCK suggest that several clubs in France and Japan are preparing substantial offers to lure Aki abroad, with the player eligible to enter talks from 1 January.

He is expected to keep his options open while staying in close contact with Farrell, whom Aki holds in high regard.

Aki, who joined Connacht in 2014 and was instrumental in their Pro12 title win in 2016, also represented the British and Irish Lions in 2021. The powerful midfielder made his international debut for Ireland against South Africa in 2017 and has since become a crucial member of the squad.

Speaking about his contract extension, Aki said: "Playing in Ireland means the world to me and I am delighted to sign a contract extension with the IRFU and Connacht.

"Since moving to Galway nine years ago, Ireland has become a home from home and I am incredibly grateful to my coaches, team-mates, and supporters for making my family and I so welcome here."

Aki and his wife Kayla tied the knot in their homeland of New Zealand in 2018.

The couple are parents to three daughters—Armani-Jade, Adrianna, and Ailbhe—and a son named Andronicus.

Following a challenging experience with their first child's hospital birth, Kayla opted for home births for their subsequent children.

A rugby visionary and coaching maestro, McGeechan's tactical genius and mentorship have left an indelible mark on the sport.

His strategic prowess and deep understanding of the game have earned him legendary status in rugby circles worldwide.

Writing for The Telegraph, the 77-year-old picked his rugby dream team six New Zealanders in his selection along with three Englishmen, two Welshman and one player each from France, Scotland and Ireland.

In his analysis, McGeechan's top five players, as per his remarks, include a prominent figure from both England and Wales.

Revered as rugby's unstoppable force, Lomu was a New Zealand legend whose mere presence struck fear into opponents.

His unmatched blend of size, speed, and skill revolutionised wing play, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

McGeechan wrote: “Illness and injury ultimately slowed him down.

"But his performances at the 1995 World Cup, just as the game was turning professional, will never be forgotten.

"The game needed a superstar, and it got one in Lomu. He was brilliant for rugby.”

Renowned for his fierce leadership and unyielding determination, Johnson captained England to Rugby World Cup glory in 2003.

A towering figure both on and off the field, his uncompromising style made him a symbol of rugby excellence.

He wrote: "I think he defined an era, both for forward play and for the performances of the teams he represented."

Widely regarded as one of rugby's greatest fly-halves, Carter's precise kicking, silky running, and tactical brilliance set him apart.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner with New Zealand, his influence transcended eras, inspiring generations of players.

McGeechan wrote that Carter “really was the complete 10."

He added: "His defence was immaculate, he could break himself, he could bring others in to play, his kicking from hand and from tee was incredibly accurate.

"He also changed the way the game was played with his kicking from his own 22m and his kicking to compete. The greatest of the modern era in my opinion."

A dynamic force in New Zealand's storied rugby legacy, Brooke's versatility and flair elevated him to legendary status.

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Renowned for his powerful runs, deft handling, and pinpoint accuracy, he became a symbol of the All Blacks' relentless pursuit of excellence.

He wrote: "His ability to bring others into the game, his ability to stay connected in the game himself, popping up repeatedly through different phases; all exemplary.

"And he dropped goals of course. A true original."

A Welsh icon and arguably the greatest scrum-half in rugby history, Edwards redefined his position with his exceptional vision, speed, and game-changing abilities.

A key figure in Wales' golden era of the 1970s, his name remains synonymous with rugby brilliance.

McGeechan wrote: "My favourite scrum-half of all time happens to be my favourite player of all time. Gareth Edwards was and always will be the master. The Greatest."