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France stars Maestri and Fickou swap Toulouse for Top 14 rivals
By Tom Webber
Stade Francais have completed the signings of France internationals Yoann Maestri and Gael Fickou from Toulouse.
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Lock Maestri has agreed a four-year contract with Stade, while centre Fickou is tied to the club until the end of the 2022-23 season.
The duo have been named in Jacques Brunel’s France squad for the tour to New Zealand in June.
Stade president Hubert Patricot said: “We are very proud of these signings. Yoann is a worker, he is a player who will bring all his experience of major event.
? C'est désormais #officiel, Yoann Maestri et Gaël Fickou se sont engagés avec #Paris pour les 4 et 5 prochaines saisons !#Maestri2022 #Fickou2023 #SFParis pic.twitter.com/xc901yd1iU
— Stade Français Paris (@SFParisRugby) May 29, 2018
“Gael is young but he also has international experience. He will continue to grow with our project and will be able to display all his talent with us.
“Both are totally committed to the philosophy of play we want to develop here and the ambition [chairman] Hans-Peter Wild has for Stade Francais.”
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Maestri has made 59 appearances for Les Bleus, while Fickou has featured in 35 Tests.
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Stade last Friday revealed former South Africa international Morne Steyn agreed a one-year contract extension with an option for a further year.
The Top 14 club narrowly avoided a relegation play-off and only finished six points clear of bottom side Brive.
