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Zebo edges closer to Racing exit after Top 14 giants sign Fickou

Simon Zebo appears bound for a summer departure from Racing 92.  The former Munster winger-turne...



Simon Zebo appears bound for a summer departure from Racing 92. 

The former Munster winger-turned-full-back is out of contract at the Top 14 giants this summer, with the Ile-de-France club yet to exercise a one-year option on his deal.

Further conspiring towards a Zebo exit is the impending arrival at Racing of Gael Fickou.

The France international centre will leave Stade Francais this summer, signing a four-year contract at the Paris La Défense Arena.

Fickou is under contract to Stade for the next two seasons, but they are keen to trim their wage bill. Fickou's is believed to be the biggest salary at the club.

Racing fans will therefore see the current France centre partnership from next season, with Fickou set to line out alongside international teammate Virimi Vakatawa.

Also set to play a part in Zebo's seemingly inevitable departure is the status of Teddy Thomas.

The France international winger looked poised to join Toulouse in recent weeks, however the parties involved have been unable to come to a satisfactory financial arrangement.

Thomas is believed to be close to his soon-to-be teammate Fickou, which could also convince him to stay - something to which Racing aren't believe to be averse.

Zebo has been linked with a potential return to Munster, with the 30-year old himself admitting, "It would be incredible to go back.

"I would really love to do it, but sometimes you don't get dealt those cards.

"I genuinely love life in Paris - I could not be happier day-to-day and my family do too. There would be a lot going into that decision.

"The World Cup [in 2023] is there but I would probably be too old so that wouldn't hold much weight!"

Donnacha Ryan is certain to leave Racing after four-years this summer. The former Munster and Ireland lock has been linked with a move to Pro D2 table-toppers, Vannes.

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Donnacha Ryan Gaël Fickou Munster Racing Racing 92 Simon Zebo Stade Francais Teddy Thomas Toulouse Virimi Vakatawa