Connacht announced on Monday the signing of utility forward Josh Murphy from Leinster on a two-year contract.
The 26-year old can play in the back row or second row. Murphy has made 52 appearances for Leinster, including starts in two of their Heineken Champions Cup pool games this season.
Murphy has also been capped at Ireland U20 level. He will join up with Andy Friend's squad in the summer.
In a statement released by Connacht on Monday, Murphy expressed his excitement to join the Connacht squad in the summer.
“At this stage of my career I feel it is time to try and contribute to a new environment and hopefully try and put my hand up to get out on the pitch every week," Murphy said. "Playing matches regularly is what I love about this sport.
"Andy Friend, and his coaching team, are building something special in the West and you can see that in the brand of rugby they play.
"When the time comes, I’ll look forward to a new chapter and it is one that I am really excited about.”
In the same statement, Connacht head coach Friend said that Murphy’s arrival will be a further boost for the club.
“Josh has all the attributes to be an important Connacht player for the next two seasons," Friend said. "Physically he’s very strong on and off the ball and coupled with an excellent skill set he is a player that very much suits our playing style.
"We’re delighted he’s chosen to come to Connacht and help add to the excellent squad we are already building here.”
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