Exiled Wallaby James O’Connor looks set to join European champions Toulon next season, putting his 2016 Rugby World Cup in doubt.
O’Connor is currently playing with London Irish after his Australian contract was withdrawn following a string of off-field incidents.
That deal was until the end of the English premiership season with O’Connor initially stating his intentions to return for the 2015 Super Rugby season and play with the Western Force.
French press are reporting the 23-year-old utility back will now play for Toulon, alongside former Wallabies Matt Giteau and Drew Mitchell.
L’Equipe reported that it was a “certainty” although the duration of the deal was not yet known.
La Provence also reported the deal as complete.
In November, just days after his arrival at the Irish, O’Connor was spotted meeting with Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal and director of recruitment Laurent Emmanuelli.
Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie said any player who wanted to be considered for the next World Cup must play for an Australian province in 2015.