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.