The Stormers are reportedly working hard behind the scenes to secure the services of a colossal Springbok and get him released from his current contract early.

According to Rapport, the Stormers are attempting to lure Bok tighthead Wilco Louw to Cape Town as they look for a long-term replacement for Frans Malherbe.

Malherbe, 34, has been out of rugby for the best part of a year due to a back injury and it’s still uncertain if or when he’ll return to the playing field. Newly-capped Springbok Neethling Fouche is currently the first-choice tighthead for the Stormers, but there’s very little quality back-up at the moment.

Rapport has quoted a source close to the player, saying a move to the Cape would be appealing for Louw because of his farm in the Cederberg area and his family who still live and farm in the region as well.

“Nothing is finalised yet,” the source told Rapport. “He’s a family man, but if he returns to the Cape, it’ll be for rugby reasons.”

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Louw is no stranger to the Stormers, having caught the eye during his stint in Cape Town between 2015 and 2019.

The 133kg juggernaut has played 18 Tests and is in line to play a starting role in the Boks’ Rugby Championship campaign.

He’s currently contracted to the Vodacom Bulls until June 2026.

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Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images