TOULON’S CAPTURE OF Ayumu Goromaru is much more than just a marketing stunt, says club president Mourad Boudjellal.

Goromaru was a star performer in Japan’s memorable Rugby World Cup campaign last year and his signing was announced by the Top 14 club on 8 June.

And the Toulon president was quick to make clear that the full-back has not only been signed in an attempt to boost the club’s profile in Asia.

“There is certainly a window to Asia, but we do not have the means to pay only for a showcase,” said Boudjellal when Goromaru was presented to the media today.

“The player’s qualities have been taken into account — he was signed for his quality as a player and scorer. I hope he will be the first Japanese player to win a major title in Europe.”

Goromaru confessed the prospect of adapting to a new country is daunting, but believes the chance to represent a prestigious club will be worthwhile.

“Toulon is a club of champions who have won many titles in recent years,” he said. “It is a difficult choice because there will be competition and a change of country, but I think it will be worth it.

“It is a great honour that a club like Toulon is interested in me. There is no equivalent team elsewhere in the world.”

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Toulon face Racing 92 in the Top 14 final at Camp Nou on Friday.

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