Cape Town - Springbok centre Jaque Fourie could turn out for the Sharks in next year's Super Rugby competition, Netwerk24 reports.
The 31-year-old, who has played for the Kobelco Steelers in Japan since 2012, is reportedly looking for a South African team to represent in next year's Super Rugby competition, in a bid to make the Springbok squad for the Rugby World Cup.
It is believed that negotiations between the Sharks and Fourie's management company - Union Sports Group - are at an advanced stage, although the Steelers would have to agree to release him.
An ankle injury has prevented the 71-Test capped veteran from playing for the Springboks in 2014.
Fourie's agent, Hilton Houghton, confirmed that the centre is considering a return to South African rugby, but added: "No decision has been made. Jaque will only return after getting the approval of his employers in Japan."
If Fourie decides to join the Sharks, he will be re-united with Gary Gold, who was recently named at the Sharks' new Director of Rugby.
The two have had a good working relationship in the past.
Gold is a former Springbok assistant coach and also coached Fourie when he was head coach of the Steelers this year.
The 31-year-old, who has played for the Kobelco Steelers in Japan since 2012, is reportedly looking for a South African team to represent in next year's Super Rugby competition, in a bid to make the Springbok squad for the Rugby World Cup.
It is believed that negotiations between the Sharks and Fourie's management company - Union Sports Group - are at an advanced stage, although the Steelers would have to agree to release him.
An ankle injury has prevented the 71-Test capped veteran from playing for the Springboks in 2014.
Fourie's agent, Hilton Houghton, confirmed that the centre is considering a return to South African rugby, but added: "No decision has been made. Jaque will only return after getting the approval of his employers in Japan."
If Fourie decides to join the Sharks, he will be re-united with Gary Gold, who was recently named at the Sharks' new Director of Rugby.
The two have had a good working relationship in the past.
Gold is a former Springbok assistant coach and also coached Fourie when he was head coach of the Steelers this year.