French giants target hottest prospect in Welsh rugby as enquiry madeThe Cardiff wing is a man in demandView 2 Images Tom Bowen celebrates last year's win over England U20s (Image: Chris Fairweather/Huw Evans Agency)French giants La Rochelle are interested in signing rising teenage star Tom Bowen from Cardiff. ‌He has also been in fine form for Wales U20s, who pushed both England U20s and France U20s close before claiming their first win of the U20s Six Nations against Scotland. ‌La Rochelle are coached by Ireland great Ronan O'Gara and have a star-studded squad with world class facilities and coaching. WalesOnline understands Bowen's academy contract has been upgraded to a senior contract so La Rochelle would have to pay compensation. Welsh rugby is struggling but the one shining light is the amount of talent currently in the Wales U20s set-up.

Source: Daily Mirror February 24, 2026 16:56 UTC