SOURCES close to the IRFU have confirmed that Munster Rugby have applied for an extension to Jaco Taute’s contract. The former Springbok centre was expected to return home in early 2017, but a deal is being negotiated where Taute might be able to re-join Munster some time next season, when his committments in South Africa have been fulfilled.
This news comes on the back of the expected signing of Grenoble’s Chris Farrell in the coming weeks. The 23 year old, former Ulster centre, is believed to have agreed terms with the IRFU and Munster, with a formal announcement to be made soon.
The 6’5″ centre, who is currently coached by Irish duo Bernard Jackman and Mike Prendergast, was a much sought after player, with interest in the 105kg centre coming from several English Premiership and Top 14 sides.
The signing of Farrell, a statement of huge intent by Munster, comes in a week where Ireland have called Stuart Olding and Rory Scannell into the Irish set up as cover for Robbie Henshaw. It seems, the IRFU are looking to call back some of their wild geese in the coming seasons, with Racing Metro’s Jame Hart also rumoured to be on the IRFU’s radar for a return to the Emeral Isle.
