Top 14
Montpellier deny du Plessis reports
ESPN Staff
January 19, 2015
Bismarck and Jannie du Plessis celebrate the Springboks' win over the All Blacks in October © Getty Images
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Montpellier president Mohed Altrad has "categorically denied" reports the Top 14 club has signed Sharks and South Africa front-rowers Bismarck and Jannie du Plessis.

Midi-Olympique reported the du Plessis brothers had each signed for Montpellier some weeks ago and would join the French club on a two-year deal after the Rugby World Cup, but Altrad, a construction mogul, said: "I categorically deny these reports. And what troubles me a lot is that all this could hurt the players ..."

Montpellier are now coached by World Cup-winning former Springboks coach Jake White, who managed the du Plessis brothers at the Sharks last year, but the situation is complicated by speculation that the pair signed when former France international coach Fabien Galthie was coach before he was relieved of his duties. White is expected to pen a two-year extension to his six-month contract.

Midi-Olympique also reported that Brumbies and Australia scrum-half Nic White will sign with Montpellier, while big-spending Toulon - long-time suitors of the du Plessis brothers - will capture the sought-after signature of Duane Vermeulen. Stormers officials said last week, in announcing Vermeulen as captain of the side this season, that the South Africa No.8 would not be leaving Cape Town, while White must gain a release from his current Brumbies and Australian Rugby Union deal that runs until the end of 2016.

Midi-Olympique also claims that Toulouse, as well as English clubs Bath and Leicester, are chasing All Blacks back-rower Jerome Kaino.

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