The Stormers are believed to be close to bolstering their pack with the addition of Springbok lock Lood de Jager.

Sources have confirmed to SARugbymag.co.za that the Stormers are in negotiations to bring De Jager back from Manchester where he has been playing for Sale Sharks.

In December, Sunday newspaper Rapport claimed that while the Durban-based Sharks were trying to secure De Jager’s services, that deal was unlikely to happen and it appears they have filled a big hole in their second row with the signing of Eben Etzebeth.

Sharks confirm Etzebeth signing

However, De Jager is eager to head back to South Africa, having joined Sale in the aftermath of winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Prior to his move to Manchester, he was an integral member of the Vodacom Bulls and captained the team in 2019.

The 29-year-old has struggled with injuries during his time with Sale and has only made 19 appearances during a two-year stint with the club.

Should he join the Stormers, De Jager would significantly boost the team’s lock stocks. Fellow Springbok Marvin Orie currently serves as the Stormers’ No 5, while they also have Adre Smith, Springbok squad member Salmaan Moerat and up-and-comer David Meihuizen in the squad.

The Stormers are also understood to be in talks to sign Cheetahs duo Clayton Blommetjies and Rosko Specman, the latter of which made one appearance for the Cape side during a short loan spell.

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