Protracted Billy Vunipola transfer saga finally comes to an end

After months of negotiations, former England No.8 Bully Vunipola has finally agreed to extend his stay at Montpellier beyond the end of this season.

The recently-turned 33-year-old, who won the last of his 75 caps at the 2023 World Cup, has penned a new one-year deal, according to Midi Olympique.

Vunipola was a regular fixture in the Montpellier team last year and has made seven Top 14 appearances, six of them starts, so far this term.

The news from France will silence rumours that he was on the wish-list of Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan Rugby League One and Newcastle Red Bulls in the Gallagher PREM.

Vunipola’s new contract will expire just in time for him to throw his considerable weight behind Tonga’s World Cup campaign in 2027.

Sydney-born Vunipola wants to switch allegiances and follow in the footsteps of their father, Fe’ao, who won 33 caps for Tonga between 1988 and 2001.

Meanwhile, his brother Mako has been earmarked for a coaching role with the Ikale ‘Tahi.