Gibson joins Shoguns exodus

Leicester are set to announce their latest high-profile signing today – former New Zealand All Blacks centre Daryl Gibson.

It will mean Gibson following his Bristol Shoguns team-mate Julian White to Welford Road. He is thought to have agreed a two-year deal with the Tigers.

Official confirmation is expected around lunchtime, but Leicester have seemingly beaten Zurich Premiership rivals Bath in the race for 19 times-capped Gibson’s signature.

Apart from England prop White, Tigers have also recruited Wales and Lions front-row forward Darren Morris and Italian Test fly-half Ramiro Pez.

But Gibson could be the jewel in Leicester’s crown, given his succession of outstanding performances this term, despite Bristol’s prolonged and ultimately unsuccessful fight against relegation.

Shoguns, who will play in National League One next term, have now seen seven of their squad depart elsewhere, with Gibson and White following Felipe Contepomi (Leinster), Garath Archer (Newcastle), Phil Christophers (Leeds), Andrew Sheridan (Sale Sharks) and Alex Brown (Gloucester).

And Bristol’s reserve scrum-half Peter Richards is poised to join Wasps, who will require cover for Rob Howley if, as expected, Martyn Wood becomes a Bath player in the near future.