Benetton deny Menoncello close to Toulon move

Benetton have denied that star centre Tommaso Menoncello will move to French giants Toulon this summer.

According to Gazzettino di Treviso, the 22-year-old, who won the 2024 Six Nations player of the tournament award, is close to agreeing a deal to play at the Stade Mayol from the end of the current season,

However Benetton issued an official statement, external describing the newspaper's report as "completely unfounded".

"Menoncello, like all other players currently under contract, is bound to the club and he will continue to wear the green and white jersey in the 2025-26 season," it read.

Menoncello scored two tries for Italy in this season's Six Nations, crossing against France and England, and was nominated for the tournament's individual accolade once again, losing out to France wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey.

His contract with Treviso expires at the end of next season and he has been open in his desire to test himself in the Top 14.

La Rochelle, coached by Ireland legend Ronan O'Gara, have also been linked with Menoncello.

However, Toulon have reportedly already secured the services of Juan Ignacio Brex,, external Menoncello's midfield foil for both club and country, for the start of next season.

Toulon, who signed 42-year-old former All Black centre Ma'a Nonu as a medical joker in February, could also offer Menoncello the chance to work with ex-France international Mathieu Bastareaud, who is team manager at the club.

Benetton reached the knockout stages of the Champions Cup for the first time this season and are on course to make the United Rugby Championship play-off for a second successive campaign.