'Faf isn't going to the Cape': Cheetahs rule out Stormers move for Bok star

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson revealed last week that De Klerk was among the experienced scrumhalves being considered as the Cape side looks to bolster its depth at No 9.

The Stormers are seeking reinforcements following the retirement of veteran scrumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage and a serious knee injury suffered by Imad Khan.

De Klerk, however, will remain with the Cheetahs after Steyn made it clear on Wednesday that the Free State franchise has no intention of releasing him.

"We aren't going to do it," Steyn said.

"Faf isn't going to the Cape. He is staying with Free State."

The Cheetahs coach confirmed that he had spoken to Dobson about the possibility of De Klerk moving to Cape Town when the pair discussed the matter last Friday.

However, Steyn said reports of the potential move surfaced before he had been able to consult the relevant stakeholders in Bloemfontein.

"There were a number of things that still needed to happen before we could take negotiations any further," he said.

One of those key stakeholders is Toyota, the Cheetahs' major sponsor. Steyn said the franchise had not yet discussed the matter with Toyota, who "have a major say in the matter".

With De Klerk now seemingly off the table, Steyn suggested that the Stormers could instead explore options among scrumhalves at two of their partner unions.

"There are scrumhalves available such as [Boland's] Louis Schreuder and others at Griquas," he said.