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Lyon to Pursue Jordie Barrett After 2027 World Cup

The French club is reportedly among the suitors for the All Blacks back as he considers a move to Europe following the tournament.

Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Soccer

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Lyon is reportedly preparing to pursue All Blacks back Jordie Barrett once the 2027 Rugby World Cup concludes, with initial talks already underway. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Lyon is reportedly offered the chance to sign All Blacks back Jordie Barrett after the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with initial discussions already underway. Barrett, 29, has scored 26 tries in 86 appearances for New Zealand.

Why it matters

A move would bring a proven international back to a French club as Europe becomes a more active destination for elite players. The reported interest also highlights competition from Japan's Rugby League One, which could complicate Lyon's pursuit.

Barrett has scored 26 tries in 86 All Blacks appearances, and he spent 2024-25 on sabbatical with Leinster in the United Rugby Championship. Whether any deal will be finalized after the 2027 World Cup has not been established.

The players

Jordie Barrett

Jordie Barrett is a New Zealand rugby union back who has scored 26 tries in 86 All Blacks appearances.

Lyon

Lyon is a French rugby club whose recruitment team is reportedly evaluating Barrett.

The details

Midi Olympique reported that Barrett's CV is on the desks of Lyon's recruitment team at the Stade de Gerland. Initial discussions are underway, though terms and timing have not been disclosed.

Timeline

  1. 2024-25: Barrett spends a sabbatical with Leinster in the United Rugby Championship.

  2. 2027: Rugby World Cup, after which a move to Europe is being discussed.

  3. 2028: Jiuta Wainiqolo's contract at Lyon expires.

Season Trajectory

The reported interest in Barrett reflects a recurring pattern in which elite Southern Hemisphere players consider European clubs after major tournaments like the Rugby World Cup. It also places Lyon in direct competition with Japan's Rugby League One for top international talent.

A move would give Lyon a proven All Blacks back for the post-2027 season, affecting its squad planning. For fantasy and club followers, the report means Barrett's availability in Europe is not yet confirmed.

The takeaway

Clubs across Europe are planning ahead for the next World Cup cycle, and players like Barrett may face significant offers. Readers should watch for formal confirmation before assuming a transfer.

Further reading

For more on European club competition, browse the Soccer section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Rugbypass.