Munster are on the verge of signing South African centre Jaco Taute, according to reports.

The news was first announced by South African website Netwerk24, who have revealed the three-time capped Springbok is joining the province on a short-term, five-month contract.

25-year-old Taute has been recruited by Munster’s new director of rugby Rassie Erasmus as cover for Francis Saili, with a shoulder injury ruling the All Black out for four months.

Erasmus is also without centre Sam Arnold, a summer arrival from Ulster, increasing the need for midfield reinforcements.

Taute’s three caps for the Boks came in 2012, and he wore the number-13 jersey during the 16-12 win over Ireland in Dublin.

He has made four starts for the Stormers this season, and follows secondrow Jean Kleyn to Thomond Park.