All Black Evans is linked to the Blues

Apr 24 2008 by Phil Blanche, South Wales Echo

Nick Evans

CARDIFF Blues are ready to step up their interest in All Blacks star Nick Evans.

The Blues had been linked with New Zealand’s first-choice fly-half Dan Carter, but French clubs Toulouse and Toulon are leading the £750,000 chase for the world’s No 1 player.

So the Blues have now switched their focus to Carter’s All Blacks understudy with Evans known to be keen on a move to Europe.

According to the New Zealand media, the Blues want former Dragons target Evans on board at the Arms Park for next season, but there is competition from Leicester and Harlequins in England.

Capped 16 times by New Zealand, the 27-year-old would not come cheap at £300,000 a year – but Blues boss Peter Thomas is determined to land a high-profile signing.

“When you get an opportunity to look at the very best players in the world you’ve got to look at them,” said Thomas recently.

“And I’m telling you, we are looking at the very best players in the world.”

The Blues have already recruited an outside-half for next season with Welsh international Ceri Sweeney joining from the Dragons.

But Sweeney could be accommodated in midfield with Australian Marc Stcherbina a potential target for the Dragons.

Blues linked with Evans as Carter hopes fade