**Leigh Halfpenny Poised for Another Career Move as French Club Beziers Express Interest**
Welsh rugby stalwart Leigh Halfpenny is reportedly being targeted for a move back to France, as ambitious club Beziers seek to secure his signature for the next phase of his impressive career. The 36-year-old full-back, acclaimed for his accuracy with the boot and unwavering professionalism, has met with key Beziers figures, raising expectations that he may soon don the club’s colours as they pursue promotion to France’s top tier.
According to the respected French publication Midi Olympique, Halfpenny travelled to the south of France at the end of last week to tour Beziers’ facilities and discuss terms. With his current contract at Harlequins set to expire at the close of the season, speculation has mounted over where the former British & Irish Lions full-back might play next. Even as he approaches the twilight of his storied career, Halfpenny’s value is as apparent as ever, with multiple clubs expressing keen interest.
Halfpenny’s decorated rugby CV speaks for itself: 101 caps for Wales, 801 points scored, and three Lions tours. Although he may no longer possess the electric attacking spark of his earlier years, his most recent performances continue to demonstrate exceptional defensive awareness and ice-cool goal-kicking precision—qualities that remain in high demand, especially at clubs striving for top-flight glory.
Currently, Beziers are vying for advancement from the PRO D2 league as they sit sixth on the table and have their eyes firmly set on a coveted Top 14 promotion. Once a dominant force in French rugby, Beziers has won the French championship on no fewer than 11 occasions, a record surpassed only by giants Toulouse and Stade Français. However, the club’s fortunes have fluctuated over the last three decades, yo-yoing between the top two divisions.
A significant turnaround in Beziers’ fortunes could be on the cards, though. The club was recently acquired by a wealthy international consortium, which boasts rugby legends such as former All Black Andrew Mehrtens and South African World Cup winner Bobby Skinstad among its ranks. These high-profile names signal the club’s ambitions, and their readiness to invest heavily in experienced talent. During his recent visit, Halfpenny is understood to have met with Skinstad—now serving as club president—and rugby director Johnny Howard, according to French media reports.
If Halfpenny were to make the move, it would not be his first stint on French soil. Between 2014 and 2017, he was a fan favourite at Toulon, helping the club achieve significant success in both domestic and European competitions. A second French chapter would also place him alongside a growing contingent of Welsh internationals in the PRO D2, including the likes of Owen Lane at Valence-Romans, George North and Tomas Francis at Provence, and Sam Davies at Grenoble.
For Beziers, snapping up a player of Halfpenny’s calibre would reinforce their promotion push as they seek a return to the top flight. Not only does Halfpenny bring a wealth of big-match experience, but his meticulous preparation and leadership qualities make him an invaluable asset both on and off the field.
Nevertheless, Harlequins are believed to be eager to hold onto their veteran full-back. Speaking recently, Head Coach Danny Wilson praised Halfpenny’s influence at the club, both on the pitch and as a mentor to younger professionals. “He’s the last on the training field and always happy to help the younger pros with what they need, whether that’s advice or physical work,” Wilson commented. “At this stage of his career, he is one of the best out there—a model professional.”
As Halfpenny weighs his options, his next move is certain to be closely watched by fans across Europe. Whether he opts for a fresh challenge with Beziers or extends his spell with Harlequins, his enduring legacy in the sport is beyond dispute. For now, the rugby community awaits the decision of one of its most respected figures, whose dedication and class continue to inspire the next generation.