Former Melbourne Rebels and Stormers centre JP du Plessis has joined the Cheetahs from Montpellier.

Du Plessis, a product of Paul Roos, is the latest in a raft of new signings for the union and will be joined by the Lions pair of Bees Roux and Willie du Plessis.

Having already announced the arrival of SA U20 star Sergeal Petersen and Blue Bulls utility back Clayton Blommetjies for next season's Super Rugby season, the Cheetahs are continuing to reshape their playing squad following the departure of a number of players in recent weeks. JP du Plessis' signature will counter the loss of Johann Sadie and Piet Lindeque, while Willie du Plessis will provide back-up to Elgar Watts for the upcoming Currie Cup campaign.

The Cheetahs have already lost the likes of Johan Goosen (Racing Metro), Hennie Daniller (Zebre), Riaan Smit (Oyonnax), Philip van der Walt (Biarritz), Lappies Labuschagne (Bulls), Ligtoring Landman (Newport and Gwent Dragons), Nick Schonert (Worcester Warriors), Kevin Luiters (EP Kings) and Andries Ferreira (Zebre), while Springboks' Trevor Nyakane (Stormers/Bulls) and captain Adriaan Strauss (Bulls) also look to be on their way out of the union.

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