Leinster's Michael Ala'alatoa confirms Clermont move

Leinster prop Michael Ala'alatoa has confirmed he will depart the province at the end of the season and link up with French Top14 side Clermont Auvergne.

The Samoa international has been a regular presence in Leo Cullen's squad since arriving from the Crusaders in 2021, racking up more than 50 appearances in just over two seasons in Dublin.

The 33-year-old's exit had been flagged since last month when it was reported in the French media that he had agreed a deal with Clermont.

And the tighthead has confirmed he's heading to France in the summer.

"I have committed to Clermont, but my focus is still here for this season and putting everything in here," the Australia native said.

"That's an opportunity that’s come up over the last few months and it’s mixed feelings because I love it here, I love this team, but the opportunity to play in France was an appealing one and one I had to consider, and it’s one I’m looking forward to this year.

"I’m not young anymore and I had to think about my family and to put my family first and the more you’re away from home as well.

"Home is so far away, so there were a lot of things I had to think about, and of course, the quality of this team, there’s not many teams like this."

The Samoa captain (above) is determined to end his time at Leinster on a high, particularly after his late red card in last May's Champions Cup final against La Rochelle.

Ala'alatoa gained a level of redemption for that mistake last weekend when he played the full 80 minutes in his side's dogged 16-9 win away to the defending champions last weekend.

"That’s what is motivating me for this season, to leave on a high and do something really special," he said.

"During my time here, we’ve come close twice but haven’t come away with