Franco Mostert linked with a move to England

Springbok and Lions lock, Franco Mostert has reportedly been linked with a move to several clubs in England - including Johan Ackermann's Gloucester.

The Bristol Post reported that numerous English clubs are interested in signing the South African once his contract runs out with the Lions and his Japanese franchise, the Ricoh Black Rams, next year.

English Championship leaders Bristol Rugby are reportedly interested in signing the 26-year-old ahead of the 2018/19 season.

Meanwhile, the Rugby Paper's transfer column On the Blindside also revealed that Gloucester is among the other clubs interested.

The English club is now headed by Ackermann, who previously coached Mostert at the Lions and took the Johannesburg-franchise to the Super Rugby final in both 2016 and 2017.

The Rugby Paper also reported that in addition to Bristol and Gloucester, several other English clubs are interested in Mostert's signature, including the Leicester Tigers, Bath, Sale Sharks and Worcester Warriors.

Mostert has played 15 Tests for the Springboks since making his debut against Ireland last year.