British rugby club Northampton Saints boss Jim Mallinder has refused to be drawn on speculation that he is on the verge of luring South Africa’s World Cup-winning lock forward Victor Matfield to Franklin’s Gardens.
Matfield, who was man of the match in last year’s World Cup final that saw South Africa beat England, is playing in the French Second Division (Pro D2) with Toulon, but the 30-year-old is only on a six-month deal.
Saints are on the lookout for another second-row forward after signing up Argentinian lock Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe from Sale.
Matfield, renowned as the top line-out specialist in the world, would certainly fit the bill, reports Rugby365 website.
Chairperson Keith Barwell said the club are hoping to bring in two world-class signings to complete their squad for next season’s return to the Premiership, and Matfield is undoubtedly world class.
Speculation is rife that Saints are bidding for the South African along with Super 14 and French clubs, with a reported salary of £375 000 being used to tempt him to the Gardens.
”We said a few weeks ago, we are always on the look out for quality international players and players who can add to the squad, and we are continuing to search for players we can add to our squad for next season,” Mallinder told the Northampton Chronicle.
”When we get any more of those signed up we will let you know,” he added. — Sapa