Stuart Hogg in ‘advanced talks’ to make shock retirement U-turn at mega-rich Top 14 outfit
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Ex-Scotland and Lions fullback Stuart Hogg looks set to make a shock return to rugby after hanging up his boots ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The 31-year-old decided to announce his retirement before the World Cup in France, citing the fact that his body was not able “to do the things” he wanted or needed it to.
More recently, Hogg appeared in court, charged with acting in an abusive manner towards his estranged wife and after pleading not guilty, he was ordered to stay away from her ahead of a trial in July.
He also opened up on his time in rehab on social media which allowed him to “rest” and now looks to be keen on returning to the rugby pitch.
Stuart Hogg set to join Montpellier?
After reportedly holding talks with the Premiership club Newcastle Falcons, which ultimately did not materialise with Steve Diamond rubbishing the reports, Hogg looks to be attracting interest in France.
French publication Midi Olympique reports that Hogg is in ‘advance talks’ to join Top 14 strugglers Montpellier as a medical joker for Les Bleus-capped fullback Anthony Bouthier.
Bouthier has ruptured a cruciate ligament and is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, and Montpellier have turned to Hogg as a potential replacement.
The wealthy Top 14 outfit is in danger of being relegated to the PROD2 next season and entering the final round of the regular season are ranked 13th overall on the table. Montpellier will have to battle it out in the promotion-relegation match against whoever finishes second in the PROD2.
Still, Montpellier have been aggressive on the player recruitment market signing England international Billy Vunipola who could be joined by brother Mako Vunipola.
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Hogg would not be the only controversial signing by Montpellier, with ex-France prop Mohamed Haouas rejoining his former club from Biarritz after his contract with Clermont was terminated when he was convicted of domestic abuse last year.
With Louis Carbonel set to join Stade Francais, Los Pumas international Domingo Miotti has reportedly signed for Montpellier, with the likes of Nika Abuladze, Nicolas Martins, Alexis Bernadet, and Mael Moustin also set to join the side ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Montpellier have reportedly recruited Hurricanes outside back Josh Moorby and Bordeaux flyer Madosh Tambwe.