Update on Mack Hansen IRFU contract talks as Bundee Aki's value explained after new deal signed
Connacht are delighted to hold onto Bundee Aki until at least the end of the 2025-26 season, while head coach Pete Wilkins is hoping for similar good news over Ireland winger Mack Hansen
Pete Wilkins claims that Mack Hansen remains on course to stay with Connacht despite no white smoke from the IRFU on a new deal.
The Union announced four central contract extensions over a 26-hour period on Monday and Tuesday, with Leinster's Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter signing two year deals and James Ryan penning a three-year contract, and Connacht's Bundee Aki committing to the summer of 2026.
As for Hansen, whose current contract also expires this summer, the Connacht head coach is optimistic. "Yes, it still looks confident," said Wilkins. "That's a work in progress at this stage, but I know they're in negotiations at the moment. So, yeah, nothing to report, but we're confident that things are progressing as they should."
READ MORE:Bundee Aki's contract situation is cleared up in boost to Connacht ahead of Leinster clash
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Aki was linked in the French media with a possible move to Toulon in the summer, but the centre himself dismissed the speculation last month when he said his contract would end in 2026 rather than 12 months earlier.
The IRFU announced as much yesterday, with Wilkins confirming that the agreement was the Union - and Aki - taking up the option of another year for the 34-year-old. It's a boost ahead of Saturday's visit to the Aviva Stadium to face Leinster.
"I don't think you worry because I think naturally when there's a high profile player, you always expect there to be demand and interest from elsewhere any time those contract renewals come around," said Wilkins of the Toulon link. "And for most of these players, they're on two year contracts, so it's pretty often that these things come up.
"The reassuring bit for us was knowing how important he is to Irish rugby and knowing that the IRFU would be incredibly supportive about having the intent to keep him on board, and also knowing how happy he is in Galway and in Ireland.
"So I don't think there was panic at any stage. But at the same time, you have to be really aware that there's some big hitting clubs out there with a lot of money and, and a bit of sunshine that they can offer to people as well. So, you're always relieved when the deal is done."
Aside from his playing qualities, Wilkins sees Aki's biggest strength as being the calm head that comes from playing on the biggest stages.
"He gives that calmness," said the westerners' boss. "Anyone can tell players to settle down and get on with the next job.
"But when it comes from someone who's excelled at the very, very top level and has seen it and done it, I think it comes with far greater gravitas and has a much bigger impact on the group.
"He's using that voice more and more. He's a good guy, and I think his heart is in the right place in terms of what he wants to achieve for Connacht and for Ireland.
"So for me, it's just about tapping into that and where I could help him, but also be open enough to utilize his experience and his opinions."
Meanwhile, utility back Sean O'Brien will miss the next four to six weeks after a scan showed a moderate grade hamstring injury.
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