An early return to New Zealand is highly unlikely for 56-test All Blacks first-five Richie Mo'unga.

The 30-year-old's agent Cam McIntyre has confirmed his Japanese club and New Zealand Rugby were in talks to forgo the final year of his three-year contract.

But those discussions have stalled and - despite All Blacks coach Scott Robertson being keen to have his Crusaders' talisman back this July - the earliest Mo'unga could return to the All Blacks would be the middle of next year.

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