Jacques Vermeulen is reportedly at the centre of a bidding war between the Vodacom Bulls and Stormers as the Exeter Chiefs loose forward weighs up his future.
According to RugbyPass, the two South African franchises are eager to bring Vermeulen home when his contract with Exeter expires at the end of the season.
The 29-year-old, who played over 50 games for the Sharks before moving to England, has also been linked with a lucrative deal in Japan.
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Vermeulen had hoped to switch his international allegiance to England under World Rugby’s residency rules but was ruled ineligible due to his appearances for the Junior Springboks in 2015.
The Bulls’ interest reportedly stems from their need to replace injured captain Elrigh Louw, while Stormers coach John Dobson is said to be looking for reinforcements after a tough campaign.
Vermeulen is believed to favour a move to Japan while Exeter boss Rob Baxter has confirmed talks over an extension.
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