A major summer departure looks to be on the cards at Leinster Rugby with James Lowe expected to leave the province when his current contract expires next month.
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As first reported by RugbyPass, serious doubts remain over the future of the Ireland international amid uncertainty surrounding his IRFU central funding status.
Lowe, 33, has struggled for game time since suffering an injury during Ireland’s Six Nations clash against England and has featured only once since — against the Ospreys. Many supporters also noticed his absence from Leinster’s latest contract announcement, which confirmed fresh deals for several senior stars including Jamison Gibson-Park.
The former Chiefs winger arrived in Dublin back in 2017 and has gone on to become one of the province’s most influential signings of the professional era. His explosive carrying, huge left boot and eye for a big moment helped establish him as a fan favourite at Leinster while also becoming a central figure for Ireland.
It is understood Lowe has already spoken with clubs in England and France about a possible move this summer as interest in the experienced back continues to grow.
Northampton Saints linked with James Lowe
RUCK understands that Northampton Saints could emerge as a serious option for Lowe should he leave Ireland.
Saints are expected to strengthen their back-three options following the departures of James Ramm and George Furbank, and Lowe’s experience at both club and international level would make him a statement signing at Franklin’s Gardens.
A move would bring the curtain down on a hugely successful chapter for James Lowe in Dublin, with the winger having played a key role in Leinster’s domestic and European campaigns over the past seven seasons.
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EDITORS PICKS
Highest Paid Player In EVERY Prem Season (1998-2026)
RUCK has dug through the archives to identify the highest-paid player in each season since the game turned professional — and the rise in wages is striking.
Some campaigns saw multiple top earners due to contract timings, but for consistency, we’ve listed the highest-paid player at the end of each season.
Here’s how it all unfolded:
Va'aiga Tuigamala (1997–1998 – Newcastle Falcons, £80,000)
A powerhouse winger and former rugby league convert, Tuigamala was one of the first marquee stars of the professional era and helped elevate Newcastle’s profile.
Francois Pienaar (1999–2000 – Saracens, £85,000)
The World Cup-winning Springbok captain brought leadership, experience, and global attention to Saracens during rugby’s early professional years.
Jason Robinson (2000–2001 – Sale Sharks, £180,000)
One of the most electric players of his generation, Robinson’s pace and agility made him a constant threat. He would later star in England’s 2003 World Cup triumph.
Martin Johnson (2001–2002 – Leicester Tigers, £200,000)
A legendary lock and captain, Johnson led from the front and remains one of England’s most respected figures in rugby history.
Jonny Wilkinson (2002–2004 – Newcastle Falcons, £250,000)
The face of English rugby, Wilkinson’s dedication and accuracy made him a global icon, highlighted by his World Cup-winning drop goal in 2003.
Lawrence Dallaglio (2005–2007 – Wasps, £300,000)
A dominant No.8 and natural leader, Dallaglio was central to Wasps’ success and England’s golden era.
Carl Hayman (2007–2010 – Newcastle Falcons, £350,000)
An elite tighthead prop, Hayman brought world-class scrummaging ability and All Black pedigree to the Premiership.
Mike Tindall (2010–2011 – Gloucester, £380,000)
A tough, no-nonsense centre, Tindall was known for his defensive strength and leadership qualities.
Toby Flood (2011–2013 – Leicester Tigers, £400,000)
A reliable fly-half, Flood controlled games with composure and was a key figure in Leicester’s continued success.
Chris Robshaw (2012–2014 – Harlequins, £420,000)
An industrious flanker and England captain, Robshaw built his reputation on relentless work rate and consistency.
Sam Burgess (2014–2015 – Bath, £500,000)
A high-profile cross-code signing, Burgess arrived from rugby league with huge expectations and played a major role in Bath’s run to the Premiership final.
Louis Picamoles (2016–2017 – Northampton Saints, £500,000)
A powerful and skilful No.8, Picamoles quickly became one of the most impactful forwards in the league.
Manu Tuilagi (2017–2018 – Leicester Tigers, £510,000)
A devastating ball carrier, Tuilagi’s strength and explosiveness made him one of the most feared centres in world rugby.
Charles Piutau (2018–2022 – Bristol Bears, £1,000,000)
A marquee signing, Piutau’s flair and attacking brilliance helped transform Bristol into a major force.
Finn Russell (2023–present – Bath Rugby, £1,000,000)
One of the most gifted fly-halves in the modern game, Russell continues to justify his status as the Premiership’s top earner in 2026 with his creativity and match-winning ability.
From five-figure salaries in the late 1990s to million-pound contracts today, the evolution reflects both the growth and the financial pressures of the professional era.
QUIZ: Can you name all 26 teams to have played at the Men's Rugby World Cups?
Think you know your rugby history? Test your knowledge and see if you can name all 26 teams that have played at the Men's Rugby World Cup.
You've got just 5 minutes on the clock – no pressure!
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