The rugby star this month signed a two-year deal with the Kobe Steelers in Japan, starting in June when the current French season ends.
But Carter has appeared out-of-sorts in recent times, French journalist Catherine Field told NewstalkZB on Tuesday, with him cutting a sorry figure during his last appearance for the Paris club, in October.
"He's not well, even if you talk to the man who owns the club. Dan Carter is 35 years old, has played rugby most of his life, his body is telling him it is time to take it easy," Field said.