Tigers sign Leinster utility back to offset Matt To'omua's departure

Irish international Noel Reid has agreed to a move to Leicester Tigers from Leinster for the start of the 2019/20 season, the Tigers have confirmed.

Reid made his test debut for Ireland in 2014 and began his rugby career with St Michael’s College and Clontarf before making his Leinster debut in 2011.

The 28-year-old has been brought into the club to offset the departure of Wallaby international Matt Toomua, who will depart the club at the end of the season, with Reid having played at fly-half and centre in a century of appearances during seven seasons at Leinster.

Confirming the signing, Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy said: “I’ve been aware of Noel’s qualities for some time in a very successful Leinster set-up and I’m very happy to be able to bring him to Welford Road.

“He is a natural footballer and a versatile player who has worked with top-class players at Leinster and Ireland.

“That experience will be very important to us over a tough and competitive season, and we look forward to seeing his influence within the squad here.”

Reid said: “I’m very excited to be joining a club like Leicester, with its history and success in the game, and to become a Tigers player next season.”

“I’ve enjoyed my time at Leinster and it will be sad to leave the club, staff and players at the end of the season, this place will always be special to me.

“To call Welford Road home and to be a part of what they are building under Geordan Murphy is going to be great and I’m looking forward to contributing alongside the rest of the Tigers squad.”

Reid’s signature makes him the second new player to have committed to the club ahead of next season, joining Jordan Taufua from the Crusaders in Super Rugby.

The addition of Reid and Taufua sees the pair commit to the club alongside England international Manu Tuilagi and fellow Tigers academy graduates Harry Wells, Ben White, Tommy Reffell, Jordan Olowofela, Harry Simmons, Tom Hardwick and Sam Lewis, who have all renewed their contracts with the club in 2019.