Edinburgh head coach Alan Solomons has gone back to his former club in South Africa to arrange the signing of back-row forward Cornell du Preez, who he called the “complete package”.
The 22-year-old is set to join Edinburgh, subject to a work permit and medical, after his team Eastern Province Kings finish their Currie Cup campaign on Friday.
Solomons took Du Preez to Eastern Province almost two years ago while working as director of rugby. The player had impressed with Leopards Under-21s and the South Africa Under-20 side at the 2011 IRB Junior World Championship.
Solomons said: “This signing is fantastic news for the club. Cornell is the complete package. He’s very strong physically, is an exceptionally good carrier, has very good skills and is a powerful and confrontational defender.
“It was universally accepted that he was an absolute star in his first Super Rugby season.”
Du Preez, who can play blindside flanker and number eight, joins after scoring five tries in 16 Super Rugby appearances last season.
“The decision to move was an easy one to make,” said Du Preez.
I’m really looking forward to this awesome opportunity and cannot wait to join up with the black and red army.”