French club close in on Springbok lock Marvin Orie

French Top 14 strugglers Perpignan are reported to be pursuing South African second-row player Marvin Orie to fill an apparrent vacancy at lock.

Rugbyrama report that Orie, who has earned 12 international caps for the Springboks and currently plays for the Stormers in the URC, would no doubt be a valuable addition to USAP forward pack.

Due to his involvement in the Springboks’ World Cup preparations, Orie is unlikely to join Perpignan at Aimé-Giral until the end of the year. Nonetheless, his arrival would undeniably strengthen USAP’s squad and enhance their prospects for success in the upcoming season.

His potential recruitment signifies the French club’s commitment to ambitious player acquisitions and apparent desire not to be fighting it out at the bottom of the league again next season.

Orie, who previously played for the Lions, Bulls, and the Ospreys, showcased his international potential in November when he played in three test matches against France, Italy, and England, starting in the latter two.

If Orie accepts USAP’s offer, he would join the giant 6’4, 150kg Posolo Tuilagi as a formidable duo in the number engine room position. With the departures of Faasalele, who is joining Toulouse; and Mahu, who is heading to Massy; Orie’s potential arrival is an important one for club.

They have already secured several signings for the upcoming season, including Pietro Ceccarelli, Patrick Sobela, So’otala Fa’aso’o, Jaco Van Tonder, Apisai Naqalevu, Jean-Pascal Barraque, Tavite Veredamu, Tommaso Allan and Nemo Roelofse.