Leinster “close to finalising” Thorn deal

News emerging from the Leinster camp suggests it is only a matter of time before All Black legend Brad Thorn arrives at the province.

The World Cup winning lock has expressed interest in playing for Leinster and a three-month loan deal from Japanese League outfit Sanix is expected to be completed soon.

Leinster assistant coach Richie Murphy told the Irish Daily Mirror that the Heineken Cup champions were “close to finalising a deal” which would bring the former Crusaders man to Dublin.

Second-row has been a problem position for Leinster this season with Kevin McLaughlin having to fill in at lock on occasions.

The backrow who is currently standing in as club captain admitted that the squad are excited by the prospect of acquiring such an accomplished and experienced player.

"It's really exciting. We've a bit of a crisis in the second row this season especially now that Leo has got the surgery and I've had to go in there a bit, which I'm happy to do," McLaughlin said.

"But getting a specialist second row who's won the World Cup and done everything there is to do in rugby, it's going to be a huge lift for the squad."

Thorn has earned 59 international appearances in an All Black jersey, been part of victorious teams in the World Cup, Tri-Nations and Super 14 as well as racking up 128 points in 200 appearances for Rugby League outfit Brisbane Broncos.