Melvyn Jaminet on verge of mid-season exit from Toulouse - report

France fullback Melvyn Jaminet is reportedly on the verge of a mid-season move from Toulouse to Toulon, according to French rugby outlet Midi Olympique.

According to the report, discussions between the three parties involved are said to be in an advanced stage, with Toulon looking to secure an immediate transfer. However, a hurdle remains as Toulon is required to pay compensation due to the fact that Jaminet’s contract has not yet concluded.

Jaminet joined Toulouse during the 2022 off-season from Perpignan and has since played 17 matches for the club in the 2022-2023 season, making 14 starts, including two in the group stage of the Champions Cup.

Despite his contributions, the 24-year-old fullback faced challenges, including an ankle injury during the 23rd day of Top 14 against Stade Français, which led to his absence during the final stages with Stade Toulousain.

Additionally, stiff competition from players like Thomas Ramos, Ange Capuozzo, and Juan Cruz Mallía, who are all capable of playing at full-back, impacted Jaminet’s opportunities within the Toulouse squad.

This potential transfer to Toulon represents not only a bid for more playing time and a chance to establish himself as a key player but also a return to his roots. Born in Hyères in 1999, Jaminet started his rugby journey at the RCT rugby school in Toulon before playing for the Rugby Club de la Vallée du Gapeau in Solliès-Pont and RC Hyères Carqueiranne La Crau.

Jaminet’s rugby career progressed when he joined the Perpignan academy at the age of 19. In 2021, he achieved the title of French Pro D2 champion with the Catalan club and earned his first selection with the French XV during the summer tour in Australia.

Having been picked a handful of times by France, Jaminet has faced tough competition from then soon-to-be Toulouse teammate Thomas Ramos in the 2021-2022 season, a contest Ramos has won resoundingly.

The move to Toulon provides Jaminet with the opportunity to rejuvenate his career and potentially reclaim his standing in the rugby hierarchy. If the transfer goes through, Jaminet could make his debut for Toulon on the 9th day of Top 14 against Pau on Saturday, December 2, 2023.