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FORMER England prop Mako Vunipola has joined newly promoted French Top 14 side Vannes on a twoyear deal. Saracens announced the departure of both Vunipola brothers at the end of last season, with Billy also linked to the Top 14 to join Montpellier.
Mako, 33, spent 13 years at Sarries where he won four Premiership titles and three Champions Cups.
“A real legend of English rugby,” Vannes said in a statement. “By committing to Vannes, Mako Vunipola will have his first experience of playing abroad and will discover the Top 14.”
In January, Vunipola announced his retirement from international rugby. He was ruled out of the 2023 World Cup with a back injury and won the last of his 79 caps against Ireland in March 2023.
He joins the growing list of former England players moving to France for next season where he will be joining Jack Willis, who won the double with Toulouse last season, Stade Francais centre Joe Marchant and Racing 92 winger Henry Arundell.
Owen Farrell will play for Stuart Lancaster‘s Racing 92, Courtney Lawes is joining Brive, Manu Tuilagi is moving to Bayonne, Jonny May has signed for Soyaux-Angouleme, with Kyle Sinckler and Lewis Ludlam joining Toulon.