Exciting wing Edwill van der Merwe has reportedly agreed to join the Lions from the Stormers later this year.

Playing in his first full season for the Stormers, Van der Merwe has been one of the best performing outside backs in South Africa in recent months.

But according to Rapport newspaper, the 25-year-old will further his career in Johannesburg from November this year after signing a contract with the Lions.

It is believed there was an offer on the table to keep him in the Cape, while the Cheetahs were also interested in acquiring his services, but Van der Merwe opted for the Lions instead because he believes the Lions’ brand of rugby is more suited to his playing style, thus enhancing his chances of making the step-up to the Springboks.

Despite his looming departure, Van der Merwe will still be available for selection to head coach John Dobson for Western Province’s Currie Cup campaign.

Van der Merwe was schooled at Paul Roos and played for the Maties and the Junior Boks before he was called up to Western Province and the Stormers.

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