Former All Blacks coach John Mitchell could be joining Eddie Jones' England.

Former All Blacks coach John Mitchell is reportedly favoured to join Eddie Jones' coaching team with England.

Reports out of South Africa say that Mitchell has been approached to fill the defence coach vacancy left by Paul Gustard leaving for Harlequins.

Mitchell is the Bulls executive of rugby but has been at odds with his board over his demands for a bigger playing budget.

The Bulls confirmed that an approach for Mitchell has been made.

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"The Blue Bulls Company (BBCo) would like to confirm that John Mitchell informed us that interest was shown in his services. No formal offer has however been received," the Bulls said in a tweet.

"The BBCo would furthermore like to confirm that John Mitchell's contract expires on the 31 October 2019."

Jones wants to appoint both an attack and defence coach before the start of his next training camp on September 23.

"It is all in train," Jones told The Telegraph.

"If you've ever been involved in an employment contract situation there's never a set timeline. But we're confident both the coaches will be in place for when we need them."

It would be Mitchell's second stint with England after he was the forwards coach under Clive Woodward from 1997 to 2000.

Australian Scott Wisemantel was England's attacking consultant on the tour to South Africa.