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Wilkinson set to extend French sojourn

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has been a hit on the south coast of France © Getty Images

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• News: Wilkinson extends Toulon contract
  

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is set to take up the second year option on his contract with French Top 14 side Toulon.

The Times reports that the 30-year-old is settled on the Côte d'Azur and will confirm his decision to extend his stay for another season in the coming weeks. "Talks are progressing well," the player's agent Tim Buttimore told the newspaper. "He is really enjoying life out there and we want to get it sorted out sooner rather than later, a matter of a few weeks."

The Rugby World Cup winner made a high profile switch to the Mediterranean last year having recovered from his latest injury woe - a dislocated knee - that curtailed his 12-year stint with Premiership side Newcastle Falcons. He soon rediscovered his form and fitness and was rewarded with a recall to Martin Johnson's England squad.

Wilkinson originally signed a reported €700,000 (£625,000) a year contract with Toulon, who are backed by millionaire owner Mourad Boudjellal, and the terms of the deal are unlikely to be changed in the wake of the soon-to-be-introduced Top 14 salary cap. His acquisition proved to be a shrewd move with the No.10 steering Toulon to the summit of France's top division and in doing so endearing himself to Toulon's supporters. He is the leading points scorer in the Top 14 this season and has also been a hit commercially for the club who are currently placed midtable.

Head coach Philippe Saint-Andre told the newspaper, "There is less pressure on him here and he looks happy. I have spoken with his agent and his dad and there are a few things to sort out, but I am confident he will stay. The salary cap will not be a problem."

Wilkinson was forced out of his side's recent 39-3 defeat at the hands of Clermont Auvergne with a back injury and may miss this weekend's clash with Montauban. However, he is expected to travel with the team to England next week for their European Challenge Cup clash with Saracens.

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