CEO Edgar Rathbone says there was “never any discussion” that Kurt-Lee Arendse won’t stay at the Vodacom Bulls, with new contract talks set to begin upon the Bok star’s return.
Speaking to Rapport, Rathbone poured cold water on speculation that Arendse wants to leave Loftus early for a permanent move to Japan.
Staying beyond 2026
“There was never any discussion that he wouldn’t stay until 2026,” Rathbone told Rapport. “We will talk about extending his contract when he’s back.”
Arendse, on sabbatical in Japan, has been in top form for the Sagamihara Dynaboars and attracting major interest from rival clubs.
According to Rapport, several teams are prepared to pay hefty transfer fees to buy the 28-year-old out of his current Bulls deal, which runs until mid-2026.
But, Rathbone is adamant that the 24-Test flyer remains part of the Bulls’ long-term plans. “We are currently negotiating with his agent and team about it,” he told Netwerk24.
“It will only be possible [for Arendse to return soon] if the Dynaboars are certain they do not have to play in a relegation game.”
Although the Bulls hope Arendse will be back before the 25 April URC registration cut-off, Rapport sources suggest his next appearance in South Africa could come in a Bok jersey during the mid-year Tests.
This story was first published on sarugbymag.co.za. It is republished here with permission.
