Ngani Laumape edges closer to a return to New Zealand

Stade Francais centre Ngani Laumape could be on his way back to New Zealand.

15 test cap All Blacks centre Ngani Laumape joined Top 14 club Stade Francais after the 2021 Super Rugby season signing with the club until the end of the 2023/24 season.

 

However, the 29-year-old could be granted an early release from his contract ahead of the 2022/23 season, according to the club's owner.

Laumape was spotted in New Zealand during the recent test series between the All Blacks and Ireland, sparking rumours of his return. 

Stade Francais owner Hans-Peter Wild, revealed to Midi Olympique that there is some subsistence in the rumours.

"Ngani Laumape is training with us at the moment. But his family is having a little trouble adapting to the huge city of Paris, so we recently looked into the possibility of releasing him." Wild explained.

"Whatever happens in the next few days, we will look at what is the best option for him, for his family and for the club." he added.

Laumape will likely link up with the Manawatu Turbos in the NPC if he does return to New Zealand and would likely rejoin the Hurricanes for Super Rugby Pacific 2023.

Stade Francais have already begun searching for a replacement with Wild confirming that the club is targeting former All Black Francis Saili.

"We need a three-quarter centre . We have a few options and Francis Saili is one of them. On this subject, a decision will be made within a week"

Saili was a standout for Biarritz in the Top 14 last season but is reportedly seeking a new club after they were relegated to the PROD2. Bordeaux are also interested in his services but Biarritz are said to be looking for compensation for the final two years of his contract.

Laumape played his last test match for the All Blacks in 2020 during the Rugby Championship. According to reports in 2021, he left New Zealand after receiving a 'low ball' offer from NZ Rugby. 

The NZ Herald reported, at the time, that his three-year deal with Stade secured him a seven-figure salary, $400,000 more per year than what NZR was offering.