Rugby: Are the Bulls plotting a move to Loftus for Duane?

The Bulls are reportedly looking to secure the services of Springbok loose forward, Duane Vermeulen.

The bruising eighthman recently penned a deal with Japanese outfit, the Kubota Spears, which will see him ply his trade in the east Asian nation for the duration of the 2018/19 season.

The 31-year-old had previously been linked with a move to Aviva Premiership side, Bath, as well as a possible return to South Africa and, according to Sport24, he could  find himself settling in Pretoria as the Bulls are eyeing him, along with fellow Bok, Frans Malherbe to bolster their squad for next season.

Vermeulen was an integral part of the Springboks’ 2-1 series victory against England earlier in the month, as he played a crucial role in sealing the win, as he ran 25 metres to cross the whitewash for his third try in the green and gold, effecting a turn around after his side had fallen behind early in the contest.

He has played 42 times for the Boks since making his international debut in 2012.

According to IOL, Malherbe is also firmly in the Pretoria franchise’s sights, along Free State prop, Ox Nche, who made his Bok debut in the Washington Test against Wales on 2 June.

Other players said to be linked with a move to the capital include Springbok flanker, Jean-Luc Du Preez, who currently plays the Sharks, as well as the Lions’ Cyle Brink.

However, according to the publication, the would not confirm interest in the players.

“Obviously we would like players of that quality. At the moment we can’t really do anything and have to wait for next month. We are looking at a few prospects and in due time we will make announcements,” Bulls High Performance manager, Xander Janse Van Rensburg is quoted by the publication.

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