Will Genia set for Super Rugby return

Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia will return to Super Rugby in Australia next year after signing a release from the third year of his contract with French Top 14 club Stade Francais.

The 29-year-old revealed that he had been given the all clear to return to Australia after two seasons in Paris.

“I’ll be back,” Genia told foxsports.com.au.

“I’ve just got to choose a club.

“I’ve finalised my release, which is good.

“That’s all done.”

Genia has made no secret of his desire to return to Australian rugby over the last month, but the fine print of his contract with Stade Francais was more complicated than most.

The veteran of 75 Tests initially signed with Premiership club Bath in 2015, but later had his contract bought out by Stade Francais.

However, the English club retained the first right of refusal for Genia’s services.

But after weeks of negotiations, Genia is finally locked in with Australian rugby and thanked his French club for their understanding.

“It was just a conversation that had to be had and we managed to come to an agreement that worked for both myself and Stade,” Genia said.

“Stade were very good about it which I was very thankful for.

“I’ve got the release document all done, so it’s just about choosing a club.”

The Reds are Genia’s most likely destination. It’s the club he joined as a teenager, before making his Super Rugby debut in 2007.

But with three young No 9’s already on their roster, the Reds will have to rejig their roster to accommodate Genia’s return.

“Yeah for me (my preference remains) the Reds,” Genia said. “That’s home for me.

“I spoke to my wife this morning and she’s thinking along those lines as well, so we’ll just have to wait and see.”