One of the most well known names in front-row rugby appears to be on his way to Gloucester. Nepo Laulala has been reportedly training with the squad at Kingsholm for the past month.

According to a report by Gloucester Live, the 33-year-old is currently at the club whilst he recovers from an Achilles injury that he sustained in training well over a year ago.

Still contracted to Toulouse, it is being suggested that the French outfit are considering letting the experienced prop move on, despite only appearing for the side nine times.

Played in World Cup final

Laulala arrived in France off the back of the 2023 World Cup, last appearing for the All Blacks as a replacement in their 12-13 loss to South Africa in the final. Despite his disappointing stay in France, Gloucester boss George Skivington is reportedly keen to add him to the ranks, granting the former All Black star full access to the facilities.

The move would be an advantageous one for both sides. Gloucester will be looking to rebuild their squad ahead of next season after allowing 19 senior players to leave the squad, whilst Laulala would enjoy a different environment to what he is used to, and would be given the opportunity to make a positive impact on a freshly reorganised squad.

While no deal has reportedly been made as of yet, it is understood that if Toulouse do wish to let the prop go, then Gloucester would be in prime position to pick him up.

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The Gloucester Rugby clear-out

Despite denying that there’s an active clear-out at Kingsholm, there’s certainly a lot to be said for the change of guard. Big name players are moving on after yet another mid-table finish for the Cherry and Whites. These player include, but are not limited to; Ruan Ackermann, Freddie Clarke, Chris Harris, Zach Mercer, Albert Tuisue, Santiago Carreras, Gareth Anscombe, Christian Wade, Charlie Chapman and Mayco Vivas. 

Speaking about Gloucester’s apparent exodus, Skivington said to BBC Radio Gloucestershire: “People’s journeys come to an end, opportunities open up for people, some people choose to move on,

“It’s always rough, it’s one of the horrible parts of my role is talking with people – we’ve got some really good lads, you have great times with people, you have lows with people and you become close. It’s professional sport and unfortunately that’s part of the game we all sign up for.”

Laulala eligible for Samoa in November 2026

Having last represented the All Blacks at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, tighthead prop Laulala could switch his allegiance to Samoa from November 2026.

If he does return to the pitch, he could switch his allegiance to his country of birth in time for the World Cup, and while he would be 36 by the time Australia 2027 comes around, he does play in a position where that has been done before and recently.

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Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/53-cap-all-black-returns-from-the-brink-of-retirement-to-bolster-premiership-club-after-19-departures