Semi Radradra may be on the brink of leaving Lyon mid-season as speculation mounts about a potential move to a Japanese franchise. The Fijian centre, who has represented his country twenty times, remains under contract with LOU until June 2025. However, multiple offers from Top League clubs are reportedly enticing him to make the switch.
At 32 years old, a move to Japan could be one of the most financially rewarding of his career. Radradra’s time at Lyon has been challenging, with just fifteen appearances and one try since joining the team.
In anticipation of Radradra’s possible departure, Lyon is already looking for replacement options. The club has shown interest in Iosefo Mafi from Fijian Drua and has also reached out to Toulouse’s Ange Capuozzo and Timoci Tavatavanawai of the Highlanders.
Originally from Suva, Radradra began his athletic career in Sevens before moving to rugby league, signing with the Parramatta Eels in the NRL in 2013. Over his tenure with the Eels, he played 94 matches, scoring 82 tries and establishing a reputation as a dominant winger.
In 2017, he transitioned to rugby union, first signing with Toulon, where he played 21 matches and scored nine tries over two seasons. His next move was to Bordeaux Bègles, and he quickly became a key player, netting ten tries in 22 appearances. Radradra later joined the Bristol Bears in the English Premiership from 2020 to 2023, making 53 appearances and scoring 18 tries, which was instrumental in the team’s victory in the 2020 European Challenge Cup.
Radradra has also been a vital player for the Fijian national team, participating in 20 test matches, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and scoring six tries while showcasing his adaptability in multiple positions on the field.