Gloucester have confirmed the signing of Scotland and Newcastle Falcons centre Chris Harris for next season.
The eight-cap Scot activated a release clause in his contract following the Falcons relegation to the Championship and the Cherry and Whites have taken him on board.
Speaking ahead of his move Harris was thankful for everything that Newcastle have given him but admitted he wants to continue playing in the top tier of English rugby.
“It’s all happened very quickly to be honest. I’ve loved every minute of my time with the Falcons and will be forever grateful to them. However, I’m at the stage of my career where I need to be performing at the highest level of the club game,” he said.
He also talked about how excited he is to join his new club and to play their style of rugby.
“Watching from outside I’ve been so impressed with what Gloucester Rugby have done over the past couple of seasons and can’t wait to link up with my team-mates and start to contribute. They seem to have a great team culture and play some entertaining rugby. I’ve always enjoyed playing at Kingsholm so it promises to be an exciting new chapter,” he added.
With 77 appearances under his belt in the Premiership for the Falcons, Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys believes his experience can help the club.
“We’re delighted that Chris has agreed to join Gloucester Rugby and to add another international calibre player to the squad, one who also possesses significant Premiership experience. As is the case will all Premiership clubs, there are times when the squad is tested to the max due to injuries and international commitments, for example. Chris is a proven talent, a quality player and will add to our options in the backline,” he said.
Harris is the latest Falcon to depart the club after their drop to the Championship and they will need to use this summer wisely if they are to bounce straight back up.
