Jake White will become the manager of struggling French club Montpellier.

According to French sports newspaper L'Equipe, the former Springbok, Brumbies and Sharks coach has signed a six-month contract.

Montpellier recently suffered a seven-match losing streak which ended with a narrow win over Toulouse last Saturday. They are currently sixth on the Top 14 log, 11 points off leaders and defending champions Toulon.

'White is coming with a view to being in charge of the team completely,' said L'Equipe's source. 'He will be above [head coach Fabien] Galthie. He will have the role of manager, that is what has been negotiated.'

A close friend claims the under-pressure Galthie will feel the appointment has pushed him into a corner where he has no option but to resign.

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