Tana Umaga has made it clear that Moana Pasifika would “love” to sign Richie Mo’unga, while Jeff Wilson believes the New Zealand flyhalf must carefully consider his future.

Mo’unga, who has over 50 Test caps, put his international career on hold after New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup final defeat to the Springboks, signing a three-year deal with Japan’s Toshiba Brave Lupus.

With his contract running until mid-2026, speculation over his next move is heating up.

Speaking on The Breakdown, Pasifika head coach Umaga discussed their interest in Mo’unga. “No, not at this stage,” he said when asked if they had made contact. 

“Obviously, Richie’s getting a lot of calls from everybody, but he’s someone that we’d love to talk to.”

Joking about their recruitment strategy, Umaga added: “We know his uncles, we’ll try and get him that way!”

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Pasifika, formed to develop players for Tonga and Samoa, could offer Mo’unga a middle ground, keeping him in Super Rugby while allowing him to explore Test eligibility for either nation from 2026. 

Tonga Rugby Union has already signaled its intent to approach him, setting up a potential tug-of-war for his services.

Wilson, meanwhile, believes the flyhalf must take his time. “He’s exploring his options, which he should as an athlete, as a professional,” the former New Zealand winger said.

“He’s looking at, ‘how does the landscape suit for me? Am I really comfortable where I am? Am I comfortable with my career in the All Black jersey?

“ Am I comfortable that we haven’t quite got to the top when I’ve been in charge [of the No 10 shirt]? Can I help somebody else go further than they’ve ever gone before?’

“I think he will look at all that.”

Photo: Toru Hanai/Getty Images