The Ospreys may have to cough up a record contract if they want to keep versatile star James Hook, as several French giants are said to be lining up a big-money move for the Wales international.

Hook is regarded as one of the most talented backline players in Europe, but his versaitility has been as much of curse as it has been a blessing for the 2008 Grand Slam winner.

He has been shifted to centre for the Ospreys, with Dan Biggar taking over Hook's preferred position at flyhalf.

In the national team, Hook has filled the gap wherever needed, and has done well wearing the No.13 and No.15 jersey recently.

The young playmaker is held in high regard in France, and Perpignan were close to signing the 25 year-old star last season. That move never materialised, but now they, together with Toulouse and Toulon, are circling over Hook once more.

Not only is the French league the most lucrative in the world, but a move would see Hook return to his preferred position at flyhalf. The British and Irish Lion's contract runs out in May, and the Ospreys bosses are set with make-or-break talks with Hook.

Hook is not committing to anything, but he didn't rule out a move. "Who knows what will happen? I've just got to wait and see. It's flattering and nice to know clubs want me," Hook told the Western Mail.

"When offers come in for you, you've got to take a look at them. I will do that."

Despite some concerns over his ability to control the game from first receiver, Hook is determined to prove his worth as a top-quality pivot.

"I'm not an arrogant person, but I have confidence in my ability and I know I haven't just lost that ability overnight," he said.

If Hook's contract talks with the Ospreys break down, they will have to decide whether to hold him to the remainder of his contract or put him on the transfer list and cash in by selling him to the highest bidder.

I really feel for Hookey as he could well be one of the finest talents to come out of our district (alongside Adam Jones)but not really reach his potential. Thankfully Johnno sees him as a 12 and one of the best in the world in that position, but that doesn't fit with Waga's plans to play the Doc @12

I really feel for Hookey as he could well be one of the finest talents to come out of our district (alongside Adam Jones)but not really reach his potential. Thankfully Johnno sees him as a 12 and one of the best in the world in that position, but that doesn't fit with Waga's plans to play the Doc @12

I really feel for Hookey ................................

Thats fighting talk that is

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=39921

Adam has fantasic times over 2 yards.

Does make you think though? What if............... being a young married man, unlimited talent, still, (in my opinion which I'll never change, before anyone tries!!) the best 10 we don't play there, get's offered a 4-year contract with all the associated bunce etc. could be offered a package worth £2.4Million+ and we (the majority I'd guess) think he would turn that down flat, for a RWC place, somewhere/anywhere, in the Welsh back-line!!!

Just a thought gents, I'd consider him completely barmy to turn-down that sort of deal!! Pretty certain that the likes of Toulon (despite any possible salary-cap etc.) could tempt the good lord himself to not forego a possibility of that kind of remuneration just for playing in the RWC!! A simple 'get-out' clause for Internationals etc. would, I reckon, keep Gats & co. happy, while Hooky gets rich by the minute, playing a position he believes is his own? If that kind of deal was offered, he'd be a fool to turn it down, not even a World cup 1/4 final medal comes anywhere close in value!! I don't think Hook is a fool but, will surely see us on here placing split bets on this outcome!!