All Black George Moala has officially signed a three-year deal with French club Clermont.
The blockbusting midfielder will join the Top 14 side at the conclusion of the upcoming Super Rugby season, the club announced on its website Saturday morning (NZT).
"This versatile player has a profile that we were missing in our squad," said Clermont sporting director Franck Azema. "He's going to bring lots of strength to the middle of the pitch.
"He's excellent in defence and in attack is capable of making the difference as much with his side steps as his strength."
The 27-year-old has played four Tests for the All Blacks, the highlight being a stand-out performance against Wales in June.
He's since been plagued by an injury to his elbow which kept him out of the Blues for four weeks, as well as the subsequent Test series against the Lions.
Moala's loss is a significant blow to the All Blacks' midfield stocks with the 2019 World Cup in Japan fast-approaching.
Located in central France, Clermont are currently sitting ninth in the Top14 standings.
Among their squad is another former Blues player and All Black, Isaia Toeava, and former Counties No. 8 Fritz Lee.
Newshub.
