Fijian star could move to Newcastle

AUCKLAND admit they have only a 50-50 chance of keeping Rupeni Caucaunibuca as the Fijian World Cup star contemplates a move overseas.

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has already hinted that Caucau could move to Newcastle.

"I'm not resigned to losing him, but I'm not extremely confident," said Blues chief executive David White.

"I think it's 50-50 to be honest," added White, who will also have to fend off interest from Australia.

Caucaunibuca could earn about five times his current salary of around NZ$100,000 from the New Zealand Rugby Union for playing Super 12 rugby with the Blues and in the

National Provincial Championship (NPC) for Northland.

White has hired prominent sports lawyer David Jones to look at Caucaunibuca's options. The winger was also approached by Australian agents to play in Queensland.

"David is also looking for commercial backers to keep him [Caucaunibuca] in New Zealand," White said.

"For Rupeni to stay in New Zealand two things will have to happen the NZRU will have to significantly increase their contract.

"And David Jones will have to arrange some independent finance for him through some commercial opportunities in New Zealand."