Former backline star Stuart Hogg is reportedly set to sign for Montpellier in July as a medical joker after a retirement U-turn.

According to a report by the UK’s The Telegraph, the deal will be completed in the coming weeks and the 31-year-old Scotsman will arrive in France next month.

Talks between the former Exeter Chiefs fullback and the French Top 14 club are understood to have reached an advanced stage.

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Hogg, who retired in 2023, is expected to fill in for injured France international Anthony Bouthier.

Hogg’s move follows his inquiries about returning to professional rugby, having considered offers from French, Japanese, and English clubs, including a rejected bid from Newcastle.

Since his retirement, the Test centurion has worked as a pundit and dealt with personal challenges, including time in rehab and a court case.

If finalised, Hogg’s signing would mark a significant step in his career revival, pending Montpellier’s relegation playoff outcome later this month.

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