The post-World Cup exodus from New Zealand rugby may have another member, with reports linking Ben Tameifuna with French club Racing Metro.
French media has reported that Tameifuna has chosen to sign for the Parisian club ahead of Toulouse and Toulon, an agreement that would see his All Blacks hopes come to an end.
The Chiefs prop was a New Zealand under-20 representative and linked with the All Blacks' wider training squad in 2012, but has yet to make the step up to international rugby.
Tameifuna's international eligibility has been the subject of some conjecture, with a call-up to Tonga's squad in the frame last November before the 23-year-old opted to focus on boxing training for December's Fight For Life.
Tameifuna could still feature for Tonga at this year's World Cup but a French deal would rule him out of the All Blacks frame due to eligibility rules.
If the tough-tackling prop does sign on for Racing Metro, it would see him join up with Dan Carter following the World Cup.
By NZME. News Service
