Toulon land a big Shark

French Top 14 title-chasers Toulon on Saturday confirmed they had signed international backs Frederic Michalak and Maxime Mermoz.

Michalak had already agreed a verbal deal to return to France from the Sharks in South Africa, although he is likely to play at scrumhalf next season rather than his accustomed flyhalf position which is being monopolised by Jonny Wilkinson.

“He has no doubt that he will return to France at the highest level,” said Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal, who has agreed a two-year deal with the 30-year-old.

Maxime Mermoz, 25, has signed a one-year contract and will join from Perpignan.

“It took a long time. He was hesitating between staying at Perpignan, going to Montpellier or coming to Toulon. But when he said yes, it all happened very quickly,” said Boudjellal.

AFP