James Lowe could be approaching the end of his time with Leinster as he enters the final months of his current contract.
Watch the Guinness Six Nations at your local Greene King sports pub.
The 33-year-old’s CV is already circulating among clubs in France and England, with interest expected to grow after his impressive display in Ireland’s recent win over England.
Lowe was a key member of Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning squad in the 2023 Six Nations and remains one of Andy Farrell’s most dangerous attacking weapons. Since qualifying for Ireland through residency, the New Zealand-born wing has scored 17 tries in 45 Test appearances.
At provincial level he has been equally influential. Since joining Leinster from the Chiefs in 2017, Lowe has made 99 appearances and scored 68 tries, becoming one of the province’s most prolific finishers of the professional era.
Lowe may not be the only Ireland international weighing up a move abroad. Fellow Kiwi-born star Bundee Aki is also attracting interest from the Prem.
Reports from RugbyPass claim newly branded Prem side Newcastle Red Bulls are targeting the powerful centre as a marquee signing as they look to strengthen their squad.
However, they are not alone. Saracens and Leicester Tigers have also been linked with interest in the 34-year-old, while Sale Sharks are understood to be monitoring the situation as they assess midfield options for next season.
Aki has been one of Ireland’s standout performers in recent years and was among the best centres at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. With more than 150 appearances for Connacht since arriving in 2014, his experience and ball-carrying power make him an attractive target for clubs looking to add proven international quality to their midfield.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Ireland’s five highest earners (Ranked 5-1)
While the IRFU does not publish individual contract details, it is widely understood that its leading stars operate within a central first tier worth €500,000 to €650,000 per year plus bonuses, with the next bracket earning €350,000 to €500,000. Here are the five highest earners from Ireland.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
5 Bundee Aki
Now 35, Bundee Aki remains one of Ireland’s most influential midfielders. Born in New Zealand, he qualified for Ireland on residency grounds before becoming an Irish citizen in 2024, while maintaining dual citizenship.
Aki has earned four caps for the British and Irish Lions and has played a major role in Ireland’s success, winning three Six Nations Championships, three Triple Crowns and two Grand Slams. At club level, he secured a Super Rugby title with the Chiefs before becoming a central figure at Connacht, where he also won the PRO12.
He is believed to earn between €350,000 and €500,000 per year, reflecting his continued importance to both province and country.
4 Tadhg Beirne
The only other non-Leinster player in this top five, Tadhg Beirne has carved out his own path to the elite tier. A product of the Leinster academy, he established himself at Munster, where he was named club captain in September 2024.
Beirne has delivered on major occasions. After undergoing ankle surgery during the 2023 Six Nations, he returned to play every minute of Munster’s run to the United Rugby Championship title that same season. His leadership, breakdown expertise and versatility across the back five have made him indispensable.
His earnings are understood to fall in the €350,000 to €500,000 bracket annually.
Like this:
Like Loading…