Springbok and Lions scrumhalf Faf de Klerk is the latest high-profile South African player to quit the country and take up a contract in the northern hemisphere.
Yesterday English club side Sale Sharks claimed they had signed the lively halfback on a three-year deal as part of their ambitious plans to become a top club in the English Premier League.
Director of rugby Steve Diamond said De Klerk, who has 11 Springbok caps, was a key player in their push to challenge the country's elite teams. The Golden Lions Rugby Union would not confirm the move yesterday.
Lions Rugby Company CE Rudolf Straeuli said: "Negotiations are under way and I have not signed anything regarding the offer to Faf.
"The team is focused on their third game on tour and an official announcement will be made only once they are back."
Sale, though, confirmed the move although they did not specify when De Klerk would join the club.
"I am [convinced] that Faf has decided to join us next season," said Diamond.
"He is tenacious with a fantastic work rate. He dictates the tempo and direction of the game and I think he will fit in well, both with our style of play and with the young and ambitious squad."
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