O’Connell set for Toulon move

Editor

Paul O'Connell is set to announce a two-year deal with Toulon next week according to reports in Ireland.

The Ireland and Munster second row admitted after Saturday's Pro12 semi-final win over the Ospreys that he had likely played his final home game at Thomond Park.

And despite initial denials from both sides, the Irish Times are now reporting that O'Connell's move is a done deal, which he will announce next week after the Pro12 final.

The 35-year-old will fill an important hole in the Toulon squad, with both Bakkies Botha and Ali Williams set to retire at the end of the season.

While French international pair Romain Taofifenua and Jocelino Suta will still be there, as will Georgian lock Konstantin Mikautadze, O'Connell's arrival will provide some more leadership in the front five, which is also losing skipper Carl Hayman.