RUGBY DIGEST
STUART HOGG could become the highest paid European player in history next year in a reunion with former Scotland coach Vern Cotter.
The Glasgow full-back is out of contract before the World Cup and it is understood French clubs are already expressing an interest in a ‘seven-figure’ deal.
No British player has ever commanded over £1million and Sportsmail understands Hogg could be keen on a reunion with Cotter at Montpellier.
The Top 14 side are bankrolled by billionaire Mohed Altrad, who sponsors the French national team and has the finances to outbid any Scottish interest.
‘It is up to Vern propose players and it is up to me to say “Yes” or “No”,’ Altrad told Sportsmail.
‘Most of the time I would say “Yes”. Vern has not yet mentioned Hogg to me, but of course we would be interested if it becomes an option. He is an absolutely talented guy.
‘I don’t know what his ambitions are in terms of money but he would sometimes be away with Scotland.’ nIRELAND’S women are seeking to bounce back against Italy at Donnybrook today (1pm) following their hugely disappointing 24-0 loss in France in their Six Nations opener last weekend.
Former captain Paula Fitzpatrick comes into the second row while Katie Fitzhenry is back after playing Sevens and adds menace to the Ireland backline.
However, Italy pushed England last weekend and are one sport ahead of ninth-placed Ireland in the current women’s world rankings.