Monday 14 May 2018 14:59, UK
Gloucester have confirmed Danny Cipriani will join them from Wasps next season.
The 30-year-old's contract with Wasps expires after the current campaign and they have already announced the signing of his replacement, New Zealand fly-half Lima Sopoaga.
Cipriani has been recalled by England after a three-year absence for this summer's tour to South Africa. It is the first time he has been selected by Eddie Jones.
He had to remain in the Aviva Premiership to remain eligible for England ahead of the 2019 World Cup in Japan and he is excited to be joining Gloucester.
"I've always enjoyed playing at Kingsholm and am excited at the prospect of spending the next few years in Cherry and White and playing in front of the Shed," Cipriani said.
"Having spoken in depth with David Humphreys and Johan Ackermann, the future they have planned for the club is enticing and one that I very much want to be part of. It's the most exciting move of my career to date.
"I've still some important rugby to play for Wasps in the meantime and, when the time comes, it's probably going to be an emotional farewell."
Cipriani's final appearance for Wasps will come in either this Saturday's Aviva Premiership semi-final against Saracens, or, if they progress, the final against Exeter or Newcastle on May 26.
Gloucester, who finished seventh in the Aviva Premiership this season and were beaten finalists in the European Challenge Cup, have also signed winger Matt Banahan from Bath ahead of next season.
Cipriani's arrival at Kingsholm will give further options to director of rugby David Humphreys and head coach Johan Ackermann at fly-half.
Billy Burns and Owen Williams will also be competing for the No 10 jersey, although Williams can also be utilised at inside centre.
Ackermann said: "We're absolutely delighted that Danny has signed for Gloucester Rugby. As one of the most influential and talented fly-halves in the Premiership over the past decade, the chance to sign him was simply too good an opportunity to turn down.
"He's probably in the best form of his career, reflected in his selection in the England squad to tour South Africa, and his signing is a significant one for the club.
"His signing is a real statement of intent by the club to compete at the highest level."
"Danny is very excited by the challenge of joining Gloucester and his arrival will strengthen our current options at No 10 and will complement the rest of the squad that we are still assembling for next season.
"At 30 years old, he brings a wealth of Premiership and Champions Cup experience to Gloucester and his signing is a real statement of intent by the club to compete at the highest level in both competitions next season."
