Former Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has been linked to a 'turnaround plan' to be instituted by the Bulls.

In what has been a horror season for the former three-time champs, the Bulls slipped to a seventh defeat from 10 games on Saturday.

Soon after that result, the Bulls sent out a statement to suggest that they would be embarking on a wide-ranging consultation plan to improve their performance on and off the field.

According to Rapport, the Bulls and Meyer have been in discussions for the former coach to possibly return to Loftus, while former All Blacks coach John Mitchell is believed to be another potential candidate. 

'The economic headwinds in South Africa are very strong, and the consequent financial effects contribute to the challenges faced by the Bulls and rugby in SA,' the Bulls statement read.

'Most importantly, however, we acknowledge weaknesses that have been exposed in our system, including on the field of play; reflecting in our results and the performance of the team. We have to change, improve and most importantly put a process in place to ensure the success of the turnaround.

'As a first step we will be taking advice from various role players in the industry, former players, coaches and various other forums, to ensure we implement the best possible solution.  Furthermore, we will also be engaging the support of all the role-players in the implementation of this plan through the turnaround process.'

Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images