Ian Madigan linked with shock move to a big spending English side

Ian Madigan's international career took a major step forward this autumn after his performances at the World Cup.

However the Leinster star is contemplating a move that would have grave implications for his Ireland aspirations, and for his home province Leinster. According to this morning's Irish Independent, Madigan could be about to join an English side that are competing in rugby's second tier across the water. It's being reported that Madigan is being lined up by Bristol as the man to build a team around, should they return to the Aviva Premiership. The club are filthy rich thanks to owner Steve Lansdown, and according to reports are willing to offer the Dubliner almost half-a-million pounds per year to sign for the Aviva A-League side. Bristol lost out in last year's play-offs to join England's top flight, but with Madigan having sat on the bench for the entirety of Leinster's loss to Bath, he may be considering his options at home. Madigan was fantastic against France at the World Cup, and while the entire Ireland team suffered a systems failure against Argentina, the out-half looked to have finally made a big impression in a green jersey. However, since his return to provincial action, the 26-year-old has seen opportunities in his preferred position limited, with Johnny Sexton back in harness as Leo Cullen's preferred number one option at 10. So it's unsurprising that the former Blackrock College man is being with a move away from Leinster. Any possible move of course will affect his chances of featuring in future Ireland squads as the IRFU look to crack down on Irish players moving abroad.