Rabah Slimani linked with Leinster move to become first Frenchman to play for the province
Rabah Slimani. Image: Getty
Leinster are eyeing up French tighthead Rabah Slimani as a replacement for the Clermont-bound Michael Ala'alatoa next season.
While the initial report came from France, sources have since confirmed to the Irish Independent that Leinster have sounded out Slimani's interest in joining the club.
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The experienced 34-year-old Clermont prop has been out of the French picture since the 2019 World Cup, which, in theory, would mean he would be available to Leinster during the international windows.
Slimani is out of contract at the end of the season and is expected to leave Clermont, who he joined in 2017 from Stade Francais.
The 57-times capped French international would provide cover for Tadhg Furlong, with Thomas Clarkson (24) also emerging.
Leinster have been linked with a big-money move for Australian Taniela Tupou, but talk of that potential move has cooled in recent weeks.
Leinster have already made two world-class signings ahead of next season, with South African star RG Snyman joining from Munster and All Blacks sensation Jordie Barrett arriving from the Hurricanes on a short-term deal; if Leo Cullen also lands Slimani, he would become the first Frenchman to play for the province.
