Munster’s South African coach Johann van Graan has been linked with a move to English club Bath.

Bath have endured a horrid start to the English Premiership season, suffering nine straight defeats in as many rounds and now find themselves chained to the foot of the standings.

According to reports in Irish media, Van Graan has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Bath’s director of rugby, Stuart Hooper,  who should be relieved of his duties.

Van Graan worked as Springbok assistant coach from 2012 to 2017, before taking up the head coach role at Munster.

The 41-year-old’s contract with the Irish side ends at the conclusion of the current season and it is believed that negotiations regarding a two-year contract extension until 2024 has broken down.