Springbok Lock Jean Kleyn Faces Possible Move to France Amid Club Troubles
Following their Rugby World Cup victory in France, the Springboks have become highly sought-after players worldwide.
With several Top 14 teams showing interest, Munster is bracing itself to potentially lose Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok lock, Jean Kleyn, at the end of the season.
Kleyn, who has been a stalwart in Munster’s pack since his move from the Stormers in 2016, played a pivotal role in helping the Irish province secure the United Rugby Championship earlier this year.
JEAN KLEYN EYED BY LYON
The 30-year-old lock changed his international allegiance earlier this year after completing the required three-year standdown term. He made his Test debut for Ireland in 2019, having qualified through residence.
Kleyn was expected to play a significant role in the Springboks’ 2023 season, but his switch has raised doubts about his future with Munster.
As a result of his international allegiance change, Kleyn will now be classified as a non-qualified player for Munster, as Irish provinces operate with restrictions on the number of players from elsewhere eligible to represent the team.
Both of Munster’s Springbok locks, Kleyn and RG Snyman, will see their contracts expire at the conclusion of the current URC campaign.
According to a report from Midi Olympique, Lyon has identified Kleyn as their top priority to replace departing lock Romain Taofifenua, who is expected to join Racing 92.
LYON BOLSTERING THEIR RANKS
Despite being a crucial member of Lyon’s forward pack, Taofifenua announced his retirement from international rugby following the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Lyon was unable to persuade the second-rower to continue his career at the club.
Having recently announced contract extensions for Leo Berdeu (until 2026), Killian Geraci (until 2026), and Beka Saghinadze (until 2027), Lyon is now intensifying their pursuit of Kleyn.
The team will also need to find a suitable successor for Demba Bamba, as he is set to join Taofifenua at Racing 92 for the upcoming season.
