Welsh club Dragons have entered the race to sign John Dave (JD) Schickerling amid reports that the lock is in talks for a return to the DHL Stormers.

A former SA Schools, Junior Springbok, and Western Province age-group star, Schickerling represented the Stormers and WP between 2014 and 2021.

The 28-year-old has been playing for Japanese outfit Kobe Steelers but is reportedly in talks for a return to Cape Town as the Stormers look for a replacement for Sale Sharks-bound Ernst van Rhyn.

However, their plans could be scuppered by Welsh outfit Dragons, who have also entered the race for his signature.

According to a report by WalesOnline, the Dragons are eager to bring in an experienced second rower, especially after losing Wales international Will Rowlands to French giants Racing 92.

While the Welsh clubs are set to see their playing budgets drop to £5.2m next season, the Dragons could have funds freed up by the departure of another Wales international: Ross Moriarty, who is set to join Brive.

However, the Dragons will still need permission from the WRU to secure Schickerling’s signature.

The governing body recently blocked Cardiff from signing Pumas flyhalf Tinus de Beer.