Wednesday 28 September 2016 16:49, UK
Glasgow Warriors have signed USA back-rower Langilangi Haupeakui on a two-year deal subject to both a visa and successful medical, the club have confirmed.
Haupeakui, 27, will move to Scotstoun from PRO Rugby side Sacramento Express and is expected to arrive in the coming days.
"We've been working on getting Langilangi here for some time and we were aware that there was a lot of interest in him from other clubs," Warriors coach Gregor Townsend confirmed.
"We're delighted that he's joined us and we're looking forward to integrating him into our squad as soon as possible.
"He is a strong ball carrier and hits very hard in the tackle. There will be a lot for him to work on and learn about how we play, but he will bring a high level of physicality to our forward pack, as well as increasing our strength in depth in the backrow."
Haupeakui is 6ft 1in and 18½ stones with No 8 his preferred position. The American is of Tongan heritage and has been capped by the USA on one occasion.
With current Glasgow back-rower Adam Ashe out long-term with a hip injury, Haupeakui will plug a hole in the Warriors forward pack.
"There was interest from other clubs, but joining Glasgow Warriors was an easy decision," Haupeakui added.
"I've heard a lot of positive things about the club and the city from Greg Peterson and I'm looking forward to getting over to Scotland to start training with the squad.
"I've watched a few Guinness PRO12 matches and I'm excited about the physicality and speed of the game.
"There are some great players who play in the backrow at Glasgow, so I'm going to have to work very hard to earn my place, but it's a challenge I'm looking forward to."
