Key Highlights
- Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok Jean Kleyn reportedly set to join Gloucester Rugby instead of Top 14 clubs.
- Dan du Preez joins Sale Sharks from Bath, potentially returning to Durban next season.
- Springboks Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel among players rumored to be sought by PREM Rugby clubs.
- Royal French Club RC Toulon reportedly secures Junior Kpoku as part of coaching roundabout involving Richard Cockerill.
Springboks on the Move: Jean Kleyn’s Controversial Decision
Jean Kleyn, a Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok lock whose contract with Munster is set to expire, has reportedly chosen Gloucester Rugby over Top 14 giants Toulouse and Bordeaux-Begles. According to recent reports by the Daily Mail, Kleyn will join Gloucester next season after the club failed in its attempts to lure Theo McFarland from Saracens and Samoa. The move marks a significant shift for the experienced lock, who has been a consistent performer since joining Munster back in 2016.
Kleyn’s decision comes as several Springboks are reportedly on the market ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. Other notable players include Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel, who have been offered to PREM Rugby clubs amidst changing regulations regarding foreign players in Japan’s Rugby League One competition.
Sale Sharks Target Moves: Dan du Preez Joins the West Country
Bath Rugby has successfully signed Dan du Preez from Sale Sharks. The back-rower, who was previously linked with a return to Durban, opted for Bath instead after being offered to multiple clubs. Du Preez had been lined up as a replacement for Siya Kolisi, who will join the Stormers next season.
The signing of du Preez is significant for both Sale Sharks and Bath Rugby.
For Sale, it’s an attempt to strengthen their back-row after Theo McFarland’s move to La Rochelle. Meanwhile, Bath has addressed a critical need in its back-row lineup with du Preez joining the Cherry and White.
Coaching Roundabout: Toulon and Beyond
The French giants RC Toulon are making waves with their latest coaching appointments. According to Midi Olympique, Toulon will bid farewell to Sergio Parisse at the end of the season after discussions with the Italian Rugby Federation over a potential role in Gonzalo Quesada’s coaching team. This move signals a significant reshuffle for Toulon as they seek new leadership.
Meanwhile, Bath Rugby is restructuring its coaching staff under pressure from John Plumtree’s upcoming departure.
Richard Cockerill, recently relieved of his duties with Georgia, has emerged as one of the potential candidates to take over. Other names in contention include Rob Burgess (Bath’s head of recruitment), Mike Brown, and Nick Easter.
The coaching roundabout also sees interest from Harlequins, who have been struggling this season. Former players and coaches are stepping up to offer their help, with ex-All Blacks coach Vern Cotter and Dave Rennie (Kobe Kobelco Steelers) among the names circulating.
Transfer News: Mike Brown Back at Harlequins
Bath Rugby’s Johann van Graan-coached team has successfully signed Dan du Preez, a move that adds depth to their back-row. Du Preez had been linked with a return to Durban before Bath intervened. The signing comes as part of the ongoing restructuring at Bath, where Francois van Wyk is likely to join Stuart Lancaster’s Connacht next season.
With several players set to leave, Bath faces challenges in maintaining their front-row strength.
Thomas du Toit’s move to the Sale Sharks leaves a gap that needs filling, with Will Stuart and England prop Alec Hepburn on the market. Perpignan’s Giorgi Tetrashvili is also in talks with Leicester to replace Nicky Smith, while Montpellier’s Nika Abuladze looks set for a return to Exeter.
The moves highlight the dynamic nature of rugby transfers as clubs prepare for the 2026/27 season. With key players and coaches on the move, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the landscape of European rugby.
