Exeter forward Tuima to join Newcastle next season

Newcastle Red Bulls have signed Exeter Chiefs forward Rusi Tuima on a two-year contract to join them ahead of next season.

Tuima has scored 20 tries in 74 games for Exeter after coming through the Chiefs' academy, making his debut in 2019 and he has featured in seven Prem matches this season.

The 6ft 5in Fiji-born player, 25, who can play as a second rower or in the back row, has represented England at under-18 and under-20 level and the A team.

"Rusi has a well-deserved reputation around the Prem as somebody who loves the physical aspects of the game," said, external Newcastle sporting general manager Neil McIlroy.

"He has come through the national pathway and earned his England A cap last season, and it's great that he sees Newcastle as a stage where he can really push on and achieve his personal ambitions."

Newcastle won their first league game for 14 months in beating Gloucester on Friday and Tuima's arrival is the latest strengthening of their squad for next season.

He joins Exeter team-mate Josh Hodge, Argentina lock Franco Molina and New Zealand number eight Hoskins Sotutu in heading to Kingston Park.