Willis has shone since moving to France in late 2022. However his decision to extend his contract with Toulouse, rather than return home in the aftermath of former club Wasps going bust, means he is currently ineligible for England selection and hasn't played Test rugby since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
There is precedent for the Lions negotiating the early release of players from French clubs.
In 2013, Welsh prop Gethin Jenkins, whose contract was coming to an end with Toulon, was cleared to link up Warren Gatland's Lions before they left for Australia.
However, French sides have recently been highly protective of their talent, striking a deal to excuse players involved in the Top 14 final from the national team's summer tour of New Zealand.
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