The Vodacom Bulls are reportedly keen to lure Springbok flanks Marcell Coetzee and Arno Botha to Pretoria for the 2021 season.
According to Netwerk24, the Bulls are on the hunt for new looseforwards – specifically those with a good amount of experience to play alongside Marco van Staden and the incoming Duane Vermeulen.
It was already confirmed in March that Bok No 8 Vermeulen would be returning to play at Loftus Versfeld after spending the 2020 season in Japan.
Before the season was called off due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Botha seemed to have rediscovered his best form while playing for Munster in the Pro14.
The former Bulls captain left Pretoria for a move overseas in 2017 – joining Munster after a short stint with London Irish. While Botha was initially used as backup for Ireland No 8 CJ Stander, he has taken a step-up after being given more game time with Stander away on Test duty in 2019.
Coetzee, meanwhile, has been in incredible form for Ulster and was among the 15 nominees for European Player of the Year. While he had his 2019 World Cup dreams dashed by an ankle injury, Coetzee has made a successful comeback and again impressed before the season was called off.
A stumbling block in the move for Coetzee may be his contract – which lasts until 2022. The Springbok would have to be released in order for any move away from Ulster to stand a chance.
Should the Bulls sign one or even both players, they would be in the enviable position of having Van Staden, Vermeulen, Coetzee, Botha and promising U21 captain Muller Uys in their ranks.
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