Gone.

As reported back in October, France captain Guilhem Guirado will leave Toulon at the end of the season for Top 14 rivals Montpellier.

The hooker’s decision to leave comes as a huge blow for the fallen giants who have endured a horrific season under new boss Patrice Collazo, despite spending big on Liam Messam and Julian Savea over the summer.

Guirado is regarded as one of the best hookers in world rugby and will link up with Vern Cotter’s side on a three-year deal at the end of the current season.

“Being from Perpignan, this is a club that I know well and I feel close to.” Guirado said

“They demonstrate their ambition on a daily basis: Montpellier want to succeed, to be established at the highest level and, of course, to win titles. This is also my ambition. There are not many seasons left in front of me.”