Rugby: Beauden Barrett speaks out about potential Japan sojourn after next year's Rugby World Cup

Beauden Barrett warms up during an All Blacks training session in Tokyo, Japan. Photo / Getty

Beauden Barrett has spoken for the first time about a potential big-money move to Japan after next year's Rugby World Cup.

There has been plenty of speculation about the future of several senior All Blacks after next year's World Cup in September, with much of the focus being on star No 10 Barrett – such is his profile in the world game and his ability to essentially name his price.

The Herald reported last week that Barrett's CSM management team continue to negotiate options beyond next year's tournament, including the potential of earning €1.4million (NZ$2.4m) per-season in France, with Parisian club Racing 92 said to be heading the list of Top 14 suitors.

But Japan has quickly become a serious contender to lure the services of All Blacks on short-term arrangements, with the prospect of a two-season in one year structure in the Japanese Top League.

The concept – which has yet to be confirmed – will only require a one year break from the All Blacks to play two Japanese Top League seasons in 2020, making it an attractive option for Barrett and many other All Blacks.

Fellow senior All Blacks Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock are also believed to be mulling this option, should it come to fruition.

Speaking ahead of the All Blacks' test against the Wallabies in Tokyo on Saturday, Barrett said Japan was an attractive option but he will make his decision when the time comes.

"There is a lot to like about Japan," he said at the All Blacks press conference in Tokyo.

"What I can say is there is good open communication with the coaches, my management and NZR and I am happy that at the right time I will make the right decision.

"I'll leave it at that for now. When the time is right it will be obvious and I'll make a decision."

New Zealand Rugby head of professional rugby Chris Lendrum confirmed to the Herald last week that talks about Japan in 2020 was something they were aware of.

"That concept of Japan 2020 comes up in a number of conversations," he said.

"Generally what we understand is they are looking to run two Top League seasons during 2020 but that's not confirmed.

"From a salary and welfare perspective that has obvious attraction for players who potentially have had long Super or international careers and are looking to refuel body, mind and wallet for maybe another few years."

Japan is yet to finalise its season structure beyond next year but the World Cup, which kicks off in September in Tokyo, has forced the 2019-20 domestic campaign to be pushed back to January the following year.

The Japanese Top League has already lured All Blacks Dan Carter, Israel Dagg, Matt Todd, Richard Kahui, Andy Ellis, Augustine Pulu and a host of other internationals.