Another Springbok linked with Premiership exit after Handre Pollard rumours as powerhouse forward attracting Top 14 interest – report
Dan du Preeez in action for Sale Sharks in the Premiership in 2024.
Handre Pollard is not the only Springbok that could be leaving the Premiership at the end of the campaign with Dan du Preez on the radar of Bordeaux-Begles.
The powerhouse number eight has been with Sale Sharks since 2019, joining the club alongside twin brother Jean-Luc.
They have helped Sale produce one of the most feared packs in England, with their explosive ball-carrying and bone-crunching defence often setting the tone for the Sharks.
However, the Greater Manchester outfit risk losing one of twins, according to RugbyPass, with Dan reportedly opening talks with Bordeaux.
Previous failed attempt
The Top 14 side have long been admirers of the 29-year-old having tried to sign him in 2022, but Sale managed to keep hold of the outstanding back-row on that occasion.
Although it is understood that Du Preez is under contract until the end of the 2025/26 campaign, UBB are still seeking to lure him across the Channel.
They are looking for a replacement for Japan number eight Tevita Tatafu, who is set to head back to Asia once his deal in France finishes.
Should Du Preez sign for Bordeaux, he would be joining one of the country’s new powerhouses, who have progressed significantly over the past few years.
Les Girondins reached their first domestic final in June and, although Yannick Bru’s men were hammered by Toulouse in the showpiece event, that disappointment has not carried over to this season.
They currently reside at the Top 14 summit following four victories in five, which included a revenge scalp against Les Rouge et Noir.
The addition of the seven-times capped Springbok would therefore further strengthen an already exciting squad.
Premiership exodus
On the flip side, it once again shows that the Premiership teams are always at risk of losing their big stars due to the league’s financial struggles.
This comes not long after Pollard was linked with a move away from Leicester Tigers, with the double Rugby World Cup-winning fly-half reportedly keen on heading to Japan, although no doubt French clubs will also be interested.
Leicester could also lose hooker Julian Montoya, who has been heavily linked with Top 14 outfit Pau. According to Rugbyrama, he has chosen them over Bordeaux and will sign a three-year contract ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
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