England U20 star Junior Kpoku joins new club with immediate effect

Tuesday, 13 January 2026 at 11:30

byRugby Rucker

This is news that will spark debate on both sides of the Channel. Long courted by the RFU and Sale Sharks, Racing 92 lock Junior Kpoku is set to leave Paris — but not for a return to England.

According to
Midi Olympique
, the highly rated 20-year-old has agreed a move to Toulon at the end of the season.

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The RCT and Racing 92 have reportedly reached an agreement for an early release, allowing the former England U20 standout to arrive on the Mediterranean coast as early as January. Kpoku remains under contract in Paris until 2027, with an option year included.

A fresh start in the south

Developed at Exeter, Kpoku has struggled for game time this season under Patrice Collazo, making just six appearances, five of them starts, for a total of 311 minutes. A lack of consistent opportunities has clearly pushed the powerful second-row towards a change of scenery.

For now, the deal only covers the end of the current campaign. However, with no contract signed yet in England for next season, Toulon could represent more than just a short-term stopgap.

If he convinces on the pitch, Kpoku may well extend his stay in France — all the more appealing given that he will qualify as JIFF next season, a valuable asset for Toulon’s long-term plans.