Rufus McLean set for move back to Europe as fans take umbrage

News of the imminent transfer has sparked a hostile reaction from some of the club’s supporters.

McLean, 26, currently plays for Houston SaberCats in Major League Rugby and has switched international allegiance to the United States.

His form in MLS has convinced French outfit Stade Francais to move for the player and, according to L’Equipe, a deal has been done.

The news prompted some supporters of the Top 14 club to take to social media. “Aren't you ashamed?” one wrote on X. “You are in the process of destroying the image of this legendary club you bunch of lunatics.”

Sacked by Glasgow Warriors

McLean admitted abusing his girlfriend over a period of almost two years. Edinburgh Sheriff Court heard that the former Glasgow Warriors player had pushed, hurled abuse at, and tracked her. He was ordered to do 120 hours of unpaid work and Sheriff Matthew Auchincloss said that his behaviour had been "aggressive" and "controlling".

He was sacked by Glasgow Warriors after pleading guilty, although there was criticism that Scottish Rugby had taken too long to act.

Capped three times by Scotland, McLean was able to switch countries and play for the US from last year because he was born in Boston and three years had elapsed since his last Scotland appearance.

He made his Scotland debut in October 2021 against Tonga, scoring two tries in a 60-14 win at Murrayfield. He retained his place for the match against world champions South Africa the following month. His final Scotland cap came in the third Test against Argentina on the 2022 summer tour.