Leinster sign former France prop Slimani

Leinster have announced the signing of former France prop Rabah Slimani.

The tighthead, who has played nearly 300 games in the Top14 with Stade Francais and most recently, Clermont Auvergne, comes in as a replacement for Michael Ala’alatoa, who switched to Clermont at the end of last season.

The 34-year-old, who won the last of 57 caps for Les Bleus in 2019, has won the Challenge Cup twice.

Slimani said: “I’d like to thank Leo [Cullen] and Leinster Rugby for the opportunity to come and join a club with a massive history and a proven record of competing at the very top end of URC and European rugby.

“I am very excited to also experience a new country and a new city to live and to play my rugby and it is one that my family and I are looking forward to.

“We have loved our time in France and in the Top14 but this is an incredible opportunity to come and join one of the great European clubs and to hopefully help the club achieve what they want to achieve on and off the field.”

Slimani (below) joins RG Snyman and Jordie Barrett as new recruits as Leinster look to win a first trophy since 2021.

“We are delighted that Rabah has decided to join us at Leinster Rugby,” said Cullen.

“He is a player we have long admired with vast experience at the highest level of Top14, European and international rugby.

“We believe he will be a great addition to the group, not only providing competition for the first team but also helping some of our young front row players learn and develop.

“I am sure all Leinster supporters will join me in welcoming Rabah and his family when they get the opportunity.”

Leinster begin their season with an away clash in the URC against Edinburgh on 20 September.

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