Ireland flanker Sean O’Brien has resisted the lure of French giants Toulon and signed a new contract with Leinster, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) announced on Thursday.

The 26-year-old had been linked with a move to Top 14 side Toulon, but he has given the IRFU a boost by committing to a new central contract.

“The IRFU is pleased to confirm that @SeanOBrien1987 has signed a new IRFU contract to remain with @leinsterrugby,” read a statement on the IRFU Twitter page.

O’Brien attended Toulon’s European Cup game with Cardiff in Nice on Saturday as a guest of the French club, but he has decided to stay with his home province.

The IRFU will now hope to persuade O’Brien’s Leinster teammate Jamie Heaslip to follow suit. His contract expires at the end of the season and he is also reportedly considering an offer from Toulon.