IRFU ‘very very close’ to Rob Kearney deal

The IRFU has hit back at suggestions made by Rob Kearney’s manager that there is a significant gulf between the two parties in ongoing contract negotiations.

Leinster and Ireland’s full-back, one of the most decorated players in Irish rugby history, will see his central IRFU contract expire at the end of this autumn’s Rugby World Cup. The 33-year-old has expressed a desire to see out his career in his home province but said last month that negotiations were progressing slowly.