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Wales Rugby
French giants fight over Roberts
ESPN Staff
September 30, 2012
Wales' Jamie Roberts dives over to score, Wales v Italy, Six Nations, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, March 10, 2012
Jamie Roberts is in the final year of his Cardiff contract © Getty Images
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French giants Toulouse and Racing Metro are battling for the signature of Wales centre Jamie Roberts, according to reports.

Roberts, who only recently returned to action following injury, is in the final year of his contract with the Blues and a host of top clubs are thought to be considering a bid for the 25-year-old, who has admitted he is at a cross-road in his career.

Wales on Sunday report that Racing Metro president Jacky Lorenzetti, reputed to be one of the richest men in France, is determined to bring the giant centre to the Top 14.

A source in France told the paper: "Toulouse have made some discreet enquiries as to whether Roberts would be interested in joining them. But the club which wants him the most is Racing. They are very interested. After missing out on signing your Wales winger Alex Cuthbert at the end of last season, they are determined not to be beaten again.

"Racing have ambition to become the best club in France and regard Roberts has one of the best centres in the world."

Cardiff Blues are eager to keep Roberts, who toured with the British & Irish Lions to South Africa in 2009 and is set to play a key role for them in Australia next summer. However, Racing will hope a lucrative contract, the chance to live in Paris and the opportunity to follow the likes of Mike Phillips and James Hook to one of the top leagues.

© ESPN EMEA Ltd
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