Eddie Jones is reportedly in talks with England's Rugby Football Union about becoming the national team's next head coach, and the first from overseas.
Sections of the British media reported that the 55-year-old Australian was close to being appointed, with the London Evening Standard newspaper saying he has flown to the English capital on Thursday.
The RFU said it wouldn't be commenting on speculation regarding Jones, who coached Australia to the Rugby World Cup final in 2003, and led Japan to three pool wins at the recent tournament in Britain — including a stunning 34-32 victory over South Africa that ranks as arguably the greatest upset in rugby.
England is looking for a coach with international experience to replace Stuart Lancaster, who was fired after the team became the first host to fail to advance from the pool stage.
Jones has just started a stint in charge of the Stormers in Super Rugby, so the RFU would have to agree to a compensation package with the South African franchise for his release.
Jake White, who guided South Africa to the world title in 2007 with assistance from Jones, has said he's interested in the job if approached.