Bath have reportedly won the race to secure the services of one of the Du Preez brothers for next season.
According to RugbyPass, the English Premiership title-holders have been successful in their pursuit of Dan du Preez, beating off strong interest from the Sharks. The Durban-side had identified Du Preez as a marquee replacement for Siya Kolisi, who joins the Stormers in July.
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If completed, the deal will see him become the third and final Du Preez brother to depart Sale, bringing an end to one of the club’s most influential family eras. Flyhalf Rob du Preez is heading to Bayonne in the Top 14 next season, while Jean-Luc du Preez moved to Bordeaux Begles ahead of the current season.
Dan du Preez has endured a stop-start season in Manchester, making just four Premiership appearances and battling injury. Even so, his pedigree and versatility remain highly valued, particularly by a Bath side looking to reinforce their back row as they defend domestic and European ambitions.
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However, Bath’s gain may be offset by a significant loss in the front row.
Veteran loosehead Francois van Wyk is expected to leave The Rec when his contract expires, with Connacht emerging as his likely destination. The former Western Province heavy, who turns 35 next July, has built a long Premiership career since arriving in England in 2017, featuring for the Northampton Saints, Leicester Tigers and now Bath.
Photo: @SaleSharksRugby/X
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