Jones, like any professional in the sporting world, is weighing up his options before his contract comes to an end in Japan.

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The Australian has a contract with the 'Brave Blossoms' until the end of 2015 but he was thought keen to remain in Japan, which will host the 2019 World Cup, to coach the national side as well as the new Super Rugby expansion team.

However, reports from Cape Town on Monday said that the 55-year-old had already put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal worth R5,000,000 ($385,563) per year with the Stormers.

There was also speculation that Jones could retain his role with the Japan national side despite being based in South Africa.

The former Springbok assistant coach told Japan's Kyodo News on Tuesday he was simply exploring his options.

"I am chatting with [the Stormers] but that's the extent of it," he said.

"I am off contract in 2015 and I'm looking at my options.

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"Players and coaches sign contracts and do everything they can until the contract comes to an end. But you need to look elsewhere when your contract is coming to an end. That's professional rugby."

Jones, who has never held a top coaching position in South Africa, said he was always drawn to the appeal of doing something different.

"That's why I came to Japan after coaching in England," he said.

"No Australian has done anything in Japan. I like new challenges and that's why I am chatting with them."

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Former Stormers coach Allister Coetzee, has moved to Japan to take over Top League side the Steelers and the Cape Town outfit have been in the market for a new coach.

Reuters

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