Trinh-Duc tempted by Super Rugby

Last week, the 29-year-old signed a three-year deal with the reigning European champions, which will bring to an end his 15-year association with Montpellier, the club from his home town, when this season is up.

But despite saying his move to Toulon was motivated by a desire to try something new, Trinh-Duc would not rule out a switch to Super Rugby at some stage.

"I took the time to reflect before making a long and difficult choice," he said on Monday.

"It's an important choice in my personal and professional life.

"After the World Cup disappointment [he was left out of the France squad], I wanted to try something totally different, maybe even Super Rugby.

"In any case, that's something I still have in mind.

"It was a complicated decision given I had offers from Toulon, Toulouse and Montpellier, who had made a huge offer to keep me.

"The President [Mohed Altrad] reminded me many times that he absolutely wanted to keep me."

But the chance to join a team that has tasted much success over the last three seasons was too tempting to turn down for a player who has won no trophies in his club career – the closest he came was when Montpellier lost to Toulouse in the 2011 Top 14 Final.

"Above all, it's a sporting choice. Toulon should allow me to step up to a new level at an important time in my career," added Trinh-Duc.

"I've come to the point where I need to leave to continue improving so I can reach my best level.

"I will be able to work with those who know best – Jonny Wilkinson and Diego Dominguez – two world class [former] players in my position."

Trinh-Duc denied his move to big-spending Toulon was financially motivated.

"Two years ago [when he extended his Montpellier contract] I didn't make my choice due to my salary.

"It wasn't what tipped the scales this time either. It comes into play in the negotiations, but president Altrad and Toulouse both made me good offers."

Agence France-Presse