by COLIN RENTON

EDINBURGH RUGBY have been linked to the South African stand-off or full-back Jaco van der Walt, with reports in Johannesburg suggesting that he has signed a three-year deal with the Myreside-based outfit.

The 23-year-old, who was understudy to Springbok Elton Jantjies and played most of his rugby at full- back in the season just finished, was among 18 players released by the Emirates Lions who have made substantial cuts to the playing budget for next season. His departure took many observers by surprise.

He has spent all of his career at the same club, progressing through the age groups and representing South African schools. He has made his Super Rugby debut against the Brumbies in 2015 and has since played 17 games at that level.

Should the signing be confirmed, van der Walt will boost the South African contingent at the club, which has previously provided a platform to international rugby for Allan Dell, WP Nel and Cornell du Preez.

He would compete for the stand-off berth with Duncan Weir, Jason Tovey and Phil Burleigh, while Blair Kinghorn – like van der Walt versatile enough to fill the ten and 15 slots – has had some game time in the playmaker berth.

Edinburgh were asked for a comment but had not responded by the time this article was published.