Montpellier president Mohed Altrad has 'categorically denied' reports linking Bismarck and Jannie du Plessis to the French club.

On Monday, Midi Olympique claimed that Montpellier, who are coached by Jake White, had 'obtained several weeks ago the engagement' of the brothers.

Altrad, though, said that is not the case, adding: 'What troubles me a lot is that all this could hurt the players.'

The French rugby newspaper also claimed that Duane Vermeulen would join Toulon after the World Cup, although an official announcement won't be made until July.

The Bok No 8 would join several South Africans at the club, including Bryan Habana, who has reportedly decided to prolong his stay in France until the end of the 2016-17 season.

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