'A real coup' is how Harlequins have described signing Fijian Vereniki Goneva

Harlequins have sign Vereniki Goneva from Newcastle Falcons for the 2019/20 season. The Fijian winger, who can also play centre, has a reputation as a prolific try scorer and he will add even more pace and power to Harlequins’ backline.

He brings a wealth of experience to the London club having to date achieved 55 caps for his country, scoring 20 international tries in the process.

In the Premiership he has played for both Leicester Tigers and Newcastle, ultimately averaging a try every other match across his appearances for both clubs.

Head of rugby Paul Gustard said: “It’s a real coup for us to secure the signing of Niki to bolster our squad from next season. 

“With Tim Visser’s retirement at the end of last season we have been looking to bring in quality to supplement our very exciting young wingers in Gabriel (Ibitoye) and Cadan (Murley), and there is no doubt Niki is real quality.

“Pundits and media alike have commented on his age consistently over the last few years, but it’s of no concern to me for I have seen one of his passports and it said he was only 28 so we are happy!

“His mixture of strength and speed, coupled with his experience and his continued determination and desire to succeed will complement the strengths of our current players. 

“He has been a success wherever he has been because he is talented and competitive but primarily because he is positive and a good human being. We welcome him and his partner Raijeli to the club.”

Goneva added: “After playing in the Premiership for the last six years I’m really excited to be joining Quins, whom I have always admired as one of the big English clubs.

“They were the first club that I had a jersey for as my dad bought me one when I was very little because it is his favourite team, so I have always had an affinity for them.

“I cannot wait to join up with my new team-mates and look forward to pulling on that famous quartered jersey and running out at The Stoop next season.”

Newcastle boss Dean Richards said: "Niki leaves with the thanks and best wishes of everyone at the club. He has made a great contribution during his time here, and we wish him all the very best for his move down to Harlequins."

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