CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 24: Tetera Faulkner of the Force and his team mates look dejected after conceding a try during the round five Super Rugby match between the Crusaders and the Force at AMI Stadium on March 24, 2017 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)

Western Force prop Tetera Faulkner has signed a two-year deal with the Melbourne Rebels.

After seven years and 70 appearances for the Force, Faukner returns to his home town of Melbourne, despite the uncertainty surrounding the club.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue my rugby career back in Melbourne, a city that I hold dear to me,” Faulkner said.

“After getting my first big break with the Schoolboys in Melbourne, it feels like I’ve come a full circle.”

Faulkner’s signature follows the recent signing of Japanese international back-rower Amanaki Mafi.

Meanwhile, the Rebels are also reportedly close to signing Wallabies star, Will Genia.