The Bulls are reportedly closing in on a major signing, with Springbok superstar Malcolm Marx understood to be nearing an agreement that would bring him back to South African rugby.
The Pretoria-based franchise could be preparing for a significant addition to its forward pack, with reports suggesting that Marx has agreed to a three-year contract with the Bulls.
The 32-year-old hooker is expected to make the move to Loftus Versfeld on 1 July 2027, once his current contract with Japanese club Kubota Spears expires.
Although negotiations are reportedly around 90% complete, neither the Bulls nor Marx has officially confirmed that an agreement has been reached.
Marx recently announced that he would leave Japan at the conclusion of the 2026/27 season, bringing his five-year spell with Kubota Spears to an end.
His expected return would represent a major boost for South African rugby and give the Bulls one of the country’s most experienced international forwards.
Johan Ackermann Reunion Could Influence Malcolm Marx’s Decision
One of the major factors behind the reported Bulls move is the possibility of reuniting with head coach Johan Ackermann.
The pair previously worked together at the Lions between 2014 and 2019, a period during which Marx developed into one of the most influential hookers in world rugby.
Their previous relationship could make Pretoria an attractive destination for the Springbok star as he considers the next chapter of his career.
Ackermann knows Marx’s strengths and capabilities, while the hooker would be returning to a familiar coaching environment.
The Bulls have reportedly accelerated their recruitment efforts following Junior Springbok hooker Esethu Mnebelele’s decision to continue his career with the Sharks.
Marx had also been linked with interest from the Durban-based franchise.
However, the Sharks are set to lose experienced Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi, who is expected to join the Stormers, adding another dimension to the competition for experienced front-row players in South African rugby.
Malcolm Marx Leaves Behind an Impressive Record in Japan
Since joining Kubota Spears in 2021, Marx has established himself as one of the club’s most influential players.
His contribution has been significant, with the Springbok recording 41 tries in 68 appearances for the Japanese outfit.
He also played an important role in helping Kubota Spears secure the Japan Rugby League One championship during the 2022/23 season.
The club subsequently reached the competition’s final in both the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns.
His successful Japanese adventure has further strengthened his reputation as one of the world’s leading hookers.
A return to South Africa would give local supporters another opportunity to watch the experienced forward compete regularly in domestic competitions.
Bulls Could Land One of South Africa’s Biggest Rugby Stars
Marx’s potential arrival would represent a major statement of intent from the Bulls as they look to strengthen their squad for the future.
The 32-year-old brings international experience, leadership and an impressive scoring record, qualities that could make him an important addition to Ackermann’s plans.
His experience at two Rugby World Cups, combined with his 94 Test appearances for the Springboks, would add considerable value to the Pretoria franchise.
Marx has also scored 29 tries for South Africa, a remarkable achievement for a forward.
However, until an official announcement is made, the reported three-year agreement should be treated as a developing transfer story.
When Could Malcolm Marx Join the Bulls?
According to the reports, Marx is expected to arrive at Loftus Versfeld on 1 July 2027, following the conclusion of his contract with Kubota Spears.
For now, the Springbok remains committed to his Japanese club, with his reported move to Pretoria still awaiting official confirmation.
If the deal is completed, the Bulls could be adding one of the most accomplished hookers in world rugby to their ranks.
For South African rugby supporters, the prospect of seeing Malcolm Marx back on home soil is certainly an exciting one.Malcolm Marx Set for Bulls Move as Springbok Hooker Nears Three-Year Deal – Reports
The Bulls are reportedly closing in on a major signing, with Springbok superstar Malcolm Marx understood to be nearing an agreement that would bring him back to South African rugby.
The Pretoria-based franchise could be preparing for a significant addition to its forward pack, with reports suggesting that Marx has agreed to a three-year contract with the Bulls.
The 32-year-old hooker is expected to make the move to Loftus Versfeld on 1 July 2027, once his current contract with Japanese club Kubota Spears expires.
Although negotiations are reportedly around 90% complete, neither the Bulls nor Marx has officially confirmed that an agreement has been reached.
Marx recently announced that he would leave Japan at the conclusion of the 2026/27 season, bringing his five-year spell with Kubota Spears to an end.
His expected return would represent a major boost for South African rugby and give the Bulls one of the country’s most experienced international forwards.
Johan Ackermann Reunion Could Influence Malcolm Marx’s Decision
One of the major factors behind the reported Bulls move is the possibility of reuniting with head coach Johan Ackermann.
The pair previously worked together at the Lions between 2014 and 2019, a period during which Marx developed into one of the most influential hookers in world rugby.
Their previous relationship could make Pretoria an attractive destination for the Springbok star as he considers the next chapter of his career.
Ackermann knows Marx’s strengths and capabilities, while the hooker would be returning to a familiar coaching environment.
The Bulls have reportedly accelerated their recruitment efforts following Junior Springbok hooker Esethu Mnebelele’s decision to continue his career with the Sharks.
Marx had also been linked with interest from the Durban-based franchise.
However, the Sharks are set to lose experienced Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi, who is expected to join the Stormers, adding another dimension to the competition for experienced front-row players in South African rugby.
Malcolm Marx Leaves Behind an Impressive Record in Japan
Since joining Kubota Spears in 2021, Marx has established himself as one of the club’s most influential players.
His contribution has been significant, with the Springbok recording 41 tries in 68 appearances for the Japanese outfit.
He also played an important role in helping Kubota Spears secure the Japan Rugby League One championship during the 2022/23 season.
The club subsequently reached the competition’s final in both the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns.
His successful Japanese adventure has further strengthened his reputation as one of the world’s leading hookers.
A return to South Africa would give local supporters another opportunity to watch the experienced forward compete regularly in domestic competitions.
Bulls Could Land One of South Africa’s Biggest Rugby Stars
Marx’s potential arrival would represent a major statement of intent from the Bulls as they look to strengthen their squad for the future.
The 32-year-old brings international experience, leadership and an impressive scoring record, qualities that could make him an important addition to Ackermann’s plans.
His experience at two Rugby World Cups, combined with his 94 Test appearances for the Springboks, would add considerable value to the Pretoria franchise.
Marx has also scored 29 tries for South Africa, a remarkable achievement for a forward.
However, until an official announcement is made, the reported three-year agreement should be treated as a developing transfer story.
When Could Malcolm Marx Join the Bulls?
According to the reports, Marx is expected to arrive at Loftus Versfeld on 1 July 2027, following the conclusion of his contract with Kubota Spears.
For now, the Springbok remains committed to his Japanese club, with his reported move to Pretoria still awaiting official confirmation.
If the deal is completed, the Bulls could be adding one of the most accomplished hookers in world rugby to their ranks.
For South African rugby supporters, the prospect of seeing Malcolm Marx back on home soil is certainly an exciting one.
