Leicester Tigers move for Damian McKenzie and a flanker show signs of gathering pace

LEICESTER TIGERS are believed to in advanced talks with All Blacks full- back Damian McKenzie about a move to Welford Road.
Blindside sources say that McKenzie, below, is considering his future after coming into the All Black’s squad for the Lions series only after Ben Smith’s first Test concussion.
The Chiefs ace, 22, has been outstanding in Super Rugby this season but finds himself down the All Black’s pecking order.
The Tigers have also had an interest in his brother Marty and have been clearing the decks with a series of departures in recent weeks.
They have been speaking to Blue Bulls No 8 Arno Botha who was due to join Ulster this season.
The Springbok who can also play flanker failed a medial at the end of last season and Ulster abandoned plans to sign him.
The 25-year-old who has suffered a number of injury set backs was due to sign a two-year deal with the Belfast side.
Another player interesting Matt O’Connor is USA tight head Chris Baumann who can also play hooker.
NEIL FISSLER