Bastien Vergnes-Taillefer (28) is not short of suitors. The back-rower will not be handed an extension by Union Bordeaux-Bègles at the end of the season but is of interest to a number of clubs, notably in Top 14. The information came from our colleagues at L’Equipe. The France international (1 cap, against New Zealand this summer) arrived in 2021 from Colomiers. He had proved himself on the flanks or in the middle of the back row.

L’Equipe also explain that the decision not to extend him is down to salary cap constraints. His team-mate Pablo Uberti could also leave the Gironde club at the end of the season. The versatile back is of strong interest to Clermont, coached by a certain Christophe Urios. The latter knows Uberti well, having worked with him for three seasons.

Still no extension for Falatea

Another question mark hangs over the departure, or otherwise, of Sipili Falatea (14 caps). The 28-year-old France international is out of contract at the end of the season and his extension has not yet been signed off. With the 2025-2026 season barely under way, Union Bordeaux-Bègles are already busy planning for the next one.