Sharks sign Springbok prospect Vincent Tshituka

The Cell C Sharks have confirmed the signing of Lions' back row Vincent Tshituka, arguably the break out star of the South African URC season.

The winner of "numerous VURC Player of the Match performances" has signed a three year deal with Durban franchise, the club confirmed on social media.

It's the latest big-name signing for the side, who will welcome Eben Etzebeth from Toulon and Rohan Janse van Rensburg from Sale Sharks next season.

Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tshituka and his brother Emmanuel, went to Northcliff High and have spent the last four years at the Lions.

The 6'4, 107kg back row has been a major force for the Emirates Lions this season and is being talked about as a potential back row option for the Springboks.

His signature is a significant recruitment coup for the franchise who were taken over by US consortium MVM Holdings last year and who seem eager to spend cash on player talent. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi joined last season and the Durban-based side are clearly eager to add more South African talent to their roster.

Away from recruitment, the Sharks are currently focused on contesting the latter stages of the URC after having confirmed their place in the play-offs.

They currently sit third alongside, drawn on 56 points with Munster and DHL Stormers, followed by Ulster (55), and the Vodacom Bulls (53). The final two spots in the top eight belong to Scottish sides Edinburgh and Glasgow, both on 50 points.

In their final league match the Sharks travel to Belfast to face Ulster.