TRANSFER | Lions lose battle to hold onto Malcolm Marx

The 25-year-old has opted to sign for the Kubota Spears in Japan, who are coached by former Vodacom Bulls mentor Frans Ludeke.

Back in May, the Lions announced the World Cup-winning hooker was one of four players who would be parting ways with the team as SA rugby’s well-publicised 21-day contractual exit window came to a close.

Despite Marx exercising the exit option, the Lions later stated that they remained in ongoing discussions with Marx and his representatives.

It was hoped that he could ultimately end up staying in South Africa, but a Lions spokesperson has confirmed that deal fell through.

'We tried our best, but there was nothing more we could do after his agent ultimately decided not to accept it [the Lions’ offer for him to stay].’

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Place of birth: Weston-super-Mare

Back playing rugby following his cancer recovery, centre Johnny Williams is poised to exit Newcastle Falcons to join Scarlets, according to Wales Online. The 23-year-old made an appearance with the red rose on his chest only last year, starting inside-centre for an England XV against the Barbarians. And with a father from north Wales, Williams also qualifies to pull on the red jersey – with that sole appearance at Twickenham not committing him to England as it was an uncapped match.

Place of birth: Plymouth

Born in England but raised in the South Wales Valleys, John began his playing career at Pontypridd as well as representing Wales at all Junior Levels. He also played for Cardiff Blues and was part of the squad that won the European Challenge Cup in 2010. In 2013 he moved to New Zealand and played for two seasons in the ITM Cup with the province of Northland.

WillGriff then returned to the UK and joined Doncaster in the Championship in 2014. On 3 May 2017 John was signed by Sale Sharks. Becoming a first-team regular for Sale, in the English Premiership.

After receiving a call-up during the 2020 Six Nations, the powerhouse is almost guaranteed to win his first cap when international rugby returns.

Place of birth: Bath

Born in England, Burns represented England for youth rugby union teams, before being called to represent Ireland at the 2020 Six Nations Championship.

Despite not winning a cap, the 25-year-old has been in fine form for Ulster and will likely be given his international debut when Test rugby returns.

Place of Birth: Gloucester

The scrum-half quaifies for Scotland through his Glaswegian grandafther and is currently attached to English Premiership side Gloucester's academy.

He was dual-registered Hartpury for the 2018/19 season, as well as playing A league rugby for the United.

Chapman represented Scotland in the U20s Six Nations and earned selection for the Junior World Championship in France

He was added to the Cherry & Whites first team squad for the 2019/20 season and with that his stock has continued to rise. Gregor Townsend should and probably is keeping a close eye.