Nicky Robinson and Jamie

By Andrew Collins
January 9 2015

There is increasing speculation that the former Cardiff Blue is set to re-join the region on a National Duel Contract.

There have been whispers regarding a Jamie Roberts return to Wales ever since Racing Metro made a comment which seemed to suggest they were unhappy with their Welsh contingent, which included Mike Phillips and Dan Lydiate, as well as Roberts.

Back in October, there were reports in French media that Metro was planning to release the trio from their contracts. That was seemingly backed up by coach Laurent Labit, who said, “We have already discussed the issue with them [leaving]  –  they have never really been performing since their arrival.”

That began a week-long frenzy of speculation, during which time Roberts initially seemed surprised by the news - “I’ve read a few quotes and it’s interesting to say the least. But it happens and I haven’t got a clue. Agents deal with all that sort of stuff.” – before tweeting “Funny few days. Contrary to fictitious 'press' belief, I'm not going home this week. Merci”

Though Roberts and Phillips have stayed at the Paris club, Lydiate did return to Wales in December on a NDC with the Ospreys.

The Cardiff-born two-time British Lion still has 18 months on his contract at Racing and they recently demonstrated their ambition by signing Dan Carter. While the thought of playing alongside the world’s greatest outside half must be a huge incentive to stay in France, Roberts’ large salary means they make look to offload him to afford Carter.

Though the latest developments are largely based on speculation, the Welsh coaches have previously confirmed that some players wanted to return to Wales. Gatland said, "We haven't instigated contact with the players. But we are aware that one or two of them are keen to return to Wales sooner rather than later."

Added to that, members of the current Cardiff Blues squad believe bosses are attempting to negotiate an early release for the player who has 115 combined appearances for Cardiff RFC and the regional side, Cardiff Blues.

The most recent report, albeit brief, comes from the Telegraph. In their article regarding rugby union’s 10 highest earners – Roberts appears 9^th in the list – they say, “Though earning a tidy sum of money at Racing Métro, the centre is rumoured to be heading back to Wales where he is expected to rejoin Cardiff Blues”. (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/11300999/Dan-Carter-to-become-rugby-unions-highest-paid-player-world-rugbys-richlist.html?frame=3142054)

Recruitment for the 2015-16 season have already begun, with the Blues confirming the signings of Tom James and Rey Lee-Lo. They have also offered extended deals to Argentinian pair Joaquin Tuculet and Lucas Amrosino - whose contracts run out in the summer - while Wales U18s fly half, Jarred Evans, has signed a professional contract.