Leinster await Sexton’s response to offer

Leinster's Chief Executive Mick Dawson today reiterated that they were awaiting a response from Jonathan Sexton to an offer to return to the province when his current contract with Racing Metro 92 finishes at the end of the season.

Dawson, speaking at a conference to confirm the extension of the Bank of Ireland sponsorship deal, explained that he recently met with Sexton along with IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne and that Sexton was offered a contract, giving him the option to resume his career at Leinster starting next season.

Dawson refused to be drawn any further in relation to the number of years or money that's on offer but did confirm that while it's one of a number that the Lions and Ireland outhalf was considering, he didn't expect money to be the sole motivating factor for the player. If that was the case he pointed out then Leinster could not compete with the financial clout of Jacky Lorenzetti.

His existing employers Racing Metro have offered him a four year extension - they want an answer by September 12th - while European champions Toulon have also tabled a bid. Sexton said that he had pretty much already made his decision.

Dawson said that he expected a response from the player within the next week to fortnight to communicate where he will be playing his rugby next season.