Stormers warn foreign clubs: Hands off our Springboks

03/30/2025 08:52 AM

The Stormers are intent on blocking any offers from overseas-based clubs for backline stars Manie Libbok and Damian Willemse.

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Reports are circulating that both Libbok and Willemse are highly sought after recruits in England, France, Ireland and Japan.

Libbok are reportedly a target for English side Leicester Tigers and French club Racing 92 as well as an unnamed Japanese side; while Irish powerhouse Leinster have set their sights on Willemse.

In the case of Leinster’s targeting of Willemse, they want to reel in the Springbok on a six-month loan agreement similar arrangement to the one All Black Jordie Barrett is currently on. However, for Willemse’s potential move to Ireland to materialise, the Stormers and SA Rugby would need to grant the player a sabbatical.

But the Stormers will not allow Willemse to sign for Leinster, whether on a short- and long-term deal, because the player is contracted to the Cape side until October 2027.

And staying on the topic of sabbaticals, according to Rapport, a short-term sabbatical-type deal to Japan is what appeals the most to Libbok, something he would also need the Stormers to sign off on.

"The Stormers will not let Manie go permanently," a source told Rapport.

SHOULD THE STORMERS LET LIBBOK AND WILLEMSE GO?

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