Wilkinson signs for Toulon
Jonny Wilkinson leaving Newcastle after 12 years
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Monday, 18, May 2009 10:09
Toulon have confirmed they have completed the deal to bring Jonny Wilkinson to the club for the start of the next season.
The England fly-half has been linked with the French Top 14 side for a number of months and has finally put pen to paper on a two-year-deal, which is reportedly worth 700,000 euros (£623,000) a year.
Wilkinson had spent his entire 12-year club career with the Newcastle Falcons and the club wished him well for the future.
"Jonny will undoubtedly go down as one of Newcastle's all-time greats," said Newcastle director of rugby Steve Bates. "He has contributed an incredible amount to this club over the past 12 seasons, and been an inspirational figurehead for rugby in the north-east.
"Even during the times when his appearances for us were restricted he has always remained a positive presence behind the scenes, and everyone here thanks him for his fantastic service as well as wishing him all the best for his new life over in France."
Wilkinson is still one of the biggest names in the sport and Toulon's millionaire president Mourad Boudjellal will no doubt be delighted to capture the 29-year-old. But buying Wilkinson is somewhat of a risk for Toulon in regards to his history of injuries.
The World Cup winner has had lengthy spells on the sidelines since lifting the Webb Ellis trophy with England in 2003. He has been out for the last five months with a dislocated knee, but should be fit for the start of next season.
If Toulon can get Wilkinson fit and playing, then they will have a world class performer in their ranks. The fly-half has scored a massive 1,032 international points in his 70 caps for England.