Dan Carter will make his debut for Perpignan in the second of two upcoming Heineken Cup matches against Leicester. He will not be involved in the first match between the Catalans and the Tigers at Welford Road on Saturday because of All Blacks' sponsorship commitments in Europe, but will feature in the return fixture December 14.

Perpignan fought off Toulon for Carter's signature and the 26-year-old made an understandable choice given that Toulon are involved in a relegation battle.

Meanwhile Toulon's owner, Mourad Boudjellal, has held talks with the Sale director of rugby, Philippe Saint-André, about taking over from Tana Umaga as the head coach. "I have nothing to add at the moment," said Saint-André.

Heineken yesterday signed a new contract which will see them continue to back the tournament for the next four seasons.