Siya Kolisi's move from Paris might be buckling under the weight of numbers but his return to Durban is still on the cards.
It had been reported that Kolisi's return was in jeopardy but the Sunday Times understands an agreement has been reached between the two entities. The deal will likely be confirmed after September 2.
The Parisian club, as reported by rugbypass.com, are demanding R17m compensation after they doled out the same amount to secure Kolisi’s signature after he lifted the Webb Ellis Trophy with the Springboks for the second time last October.
Negotiations between Racing and the Sharks apparently progressed well until the club insisted they be reimbursed upfront and in full, instead of the Sharks’ preference for staggered payments.
Kolisi has two years remaining on the three-year contract he concluded last year and his exit can only happen if the Sharks are prepared to part with a transfer fee.
Kolisi’s R19.82m per season salary will weigh heavily on Racing, especially if he is less than 100% committed to their cause.
— In Numbers
Kolisi reportedly expressed the wish to leave Paris after injury and a lack of form limited his appearances to just 18 last season. It invoked the ire of club owner Jacky Lorenzetti, who pointed to the Bok captain’s weight gain and loss of shape before labelling the double Rugby World Cup winner invisible after Racing’s Top 14 exit in the quarterfinals of the Top 14.
Kolisi’s family has reportedly struggled to settle in Paris and relocated to South Africa.
While Lorenzetti was reported to be playing hard ball for immediate and full compensation, he will also be aware that keeping Kolisi on Racing’s payroll without the player making a meaningful contribution would serve neither party. Kolisi’s €1m (R19.82m) per season salary will weigh heavily on Racing, especially if the player is less than 100% committed to their cause.
The Sunday Times understands Racing are searching for a replacement for Kolisi and, should they find a suitable candidate, they’ll have to find a solution that suits both parties.
It had been anticipated that Kolisi, who is on Rugby Championship duty with the Springboks, would rejoin the Sharks at the end of the competition. However, Racing’s demand for upfront payment has stalled negotiations.
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