Gloucester turn to Ireland again to bolster second-row for next season

Gloucester have signed Connacht second-row Joe Joyce ahead of next season as they continue their recruitment drive.

The 31-year-old spent almost a decade with his hometown club Bristol Bears before moving to Connacht in 2023, with the possibility of representing Ireland having played for Ireland U20 earlier in his career.

Joyce has played 46 times for the United Rugby Championship outfit to date, but will make a return to the Gallagher PREM with Bristol’s big-spending West Country rivals.

The signing of Joyce comes a week after the Cherry and Whites confirmed a deal for Munster and South Africa lock Jean Kleyn, who will arrive at Kingsholm alongside the Welsh duo of Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan.

Gloucester will return to PREM action this weekend with a visit from Bath in the West Country Derby, and will be looking to arrest a six-match losing streak across all competitions.

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Gallagher Premiership

Gloucester

26 - 30

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Bath

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“I’m really excited about making the move to Gloucester and getting back into PREM Rugby next season, it’s a fantastic opportunity for me,” Joyce said.

“I’m someone who prides myself on working hard, setting high standards, and using my experience to help drive the group forward.

“I want to make a positive impact on and off the field and play my part in helping the club achieve success.”

Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington added: “We’re really pleased to bring Joe back over to the Gallagher PREM for next season.

“He’s big, physical and uncompromising, and he’ll add a real edge to our pack, similar to those guys we’ve already added ahead of the new season.

“Joe has got plenty of big game experience, and he’ll be great for the younger guys in the building, like Freddie and Arthur, to lean on with the leadership qualities he possesses.”

“I’m really looking forward to working with him.”