Leinster boss tight-lipped over reports they have signed Bok star RG Snyman

Munster have confirmed that the Springbok lock will depart the side at the end of the current season after an injury-hit stint at the club.

Snyman joined Munster from Japanese outfit Honda Heat in 2020 and has played just 10 games for the team since.

Following the confirmation of his departure, speculation of his next destination has been rife with reports linking him with a return to South Africa with the Stormers.

Another report stated that Bath moved in pole position to sign the man often referred to as 'The Viking' while French and Japanese clubs reportedly expressed their interest too.

However, the Irish Times reported on Friday that the second-rower could still remain in Ireland and switch allegiances to join Munster's rivals Leinster. His move would be to compensate for the departure of Jason Jenkins, who is set to return to South Africa, with the Bulls and Sharks primed to snap up his services when his current contract ends.

According to multiple reports in Ireland, Munster were left stunned by Snyman's potential move, where he would link up with former Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber.

Meanwhile, Cullen remained coy when questioned about the links with Snyman on Friday ahead of Leinster's Champions Cup clash against Sale Sharks.

"It's this time of year, isn't it?" Cullen said with a smile.

"Marcus [O Buachalla, Leinster's head of communications] will reveal all if there was something to be revealed.

"At the moment, our attention is on Sale tomorrow; we talk about it at this time of year, and there are lots of different conversations and discussions happening in the background.

"So when those become a bit firmer, we'll be the first to let you know, but, at the moment, it's not where our attention is, and that is out of respect for all different parties as well. So we will focus on the game now; believe it's a sell-out; great to be here; the place is looking well."

It is also reported that Snyman is keen to remain in Ireland even if it means switching to Leinster.

While Snyman may not be on his way back to South Africa, there are several players abroad who may return to the Republic.

A report earlier this month by Afrikaans newspaper Rapport stated that Springbok centre Jan Serfontein and prop Trevor Nyakane are eager to return to South Africa, as is Gloucester back-rower Ruan Ackermann.

The same report stated that the Sharks are interested in signing Jasper Wiese, whose departure from Leicester Tigers was confirmed on Thursday.

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