The Bulls are reportedly set to confirm the departure of its executive of rugby John Mitchell this week. 

Mitchell, whose contract with the Bulls was only supposed to end in October next year, will become England’s defence coach under Eddie Jones.

The Bulls had allegedly rejected the RFU’s offer of £50,000 (R900,000) in compensation and instead requested a payout of £500,000 (R9-million) for Mitchell’s release, although SARugbymag.co.za understood the number to be closer to £200,000 at the time.

According to Rapport newspaper, the two unions have been locked in negotiations over the past couple of weeks and an agreement has been reached that will see the RFU pay the Bulls a fee of around £218,000 (R4-million).

Mitchell coached the Bulls’ Super Rugby team this year, but Pote Human took charge of the Currie Cup side.

Victor Matfield, Fourie du Preez, John Dobson and Jimmy Stonehouse have all been shortlisted as possible replacements for Mitchell at the Bulls.

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