Rugby World Cup 2019: Ma'a Nonu tipped for Toulon return

Blues midfielder Ma'a Nonu is on the verge of a shock return to former club Toulon, according French reports.

The 37-year-old is being targeted as cover for Mathieu Bastareaud, who will head to the US Major League Rugby, after the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Nonu played 77 games for Toulon over a four-year period between 2015-18.

Club president Mourad Boudjellal has already signed several high-profile names for next season, but refused to comment on Nonu.

Boudjellal said more signings for the 2019/20 season would be announced next month.

The reports claim the contract is just awaiting Nonu's signature.

Former All Blacks Julian Savea and Liam Messam are currently contracted to the French club, while Hurricanes outside back Nehe Milner-Skudder will join them, after the current Super Rugby season.

Nonu returned to New Zealand for the 2019 Super Rugby season, citing family as a big reason for his return.

He is currently playing with the Blues and has scored three tries in 13 games for the Auckland franchise.

Nonu has been tipped as an outside candidate for the All Blacks' World Cup squad, but it is unclear whether a contract with Toulon would affect his chances of being named in Steve Hansen's team.

Newshub.

Join us at 7:30pm Friday for live updates of the Blues v Bulls Super Rugby clash