Saracens closing in on Bok star

Wikus van Heerden: Weighing up his options?

Saracens are believed to be lining up Springbok flank Wikus van Heerden to fill the void left by retiring star Richard Hill.

Negotiations are understood to be at an advanced stage for the 29-year-old Bulls player, according to Tuesday's Evening Standard.

The World Cup-winner, who featured in six of South Africa's seven matches in France, including the 36-0 Pool success over England, is likely to be the club's third Test signing following England lock Steve Borthwick and Wales number-eight Michael Owen's arrival.

Soon to be the recipients of a multi-million pound backing from South African Investments Limited, the European Cup semi-finalists were also reported in Sportsmail last week to be pursuing an ambitious bid to lure All Black Daniel Carter to Vicarage Road later this year.