French U20 star backrow Patrick Tuifua has chosen to sign a deal with Super Rugby franchise the Hurricanes as opposed to linking up with a Top 14 club.
The New Caledonian born Tuifua has been at the centre of a tug of war between the big money Top 14 sides at the Hurricanes with the backrow now reportedly making his decision.
Featuring in two matches in the 2024 U20 Six Nations, it was widely expected that Tuifua would move to France with a view to playing for Les Bleus.
Instead the Hawke’s Bay Magpies stand out has opted to remain in New Zealand and will become eligible for the All Blacks in one year’s time.
Per reports in the French media earlier this year, Tuifua was being watched closely by French head coach Fabian Galthie and was in the running to tour with Les Bleus but his future with French Rugby now looks uncertain.
According to French media outlet Midi Olympique, Tuifua was a key target for Top 14 clubs Toulon, La Rochelle , Stade Français, Montpellier and Toulouse.
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