Former Springbok loose forward Joe van Niekerk looks set to join the Lions in the Super 14 after being let go by his English club Northampton.

Van Niekerk, who is considering taking legal action against the Saints, has undergone medical tests and is due to attend a training session with the Lions this week.

Van Niekerk was set to join Saints this autumn but the club terminated the contract with him after deciding his lower back injury was too much of a liability.

"Joe still wants to play abroad," Van Niekerk's mother Cathy, also his agent, said on Sunday.

"We'll have to fight a legal battle."

Lions president Jannie Ferreira said he has been impressed by Van Niekerk's positive outlook during their discussions.

"At his best, Joe is a very good player, his presence will add depth to the Lions' loose forwards because nobody can play in 14 consecutive matches in this competition," he said.