Glasgow Warriors to sign USA back row Langilangi Haupeakui

Gregor Townsend is excited by the "physicality" Langilangi will bring to Glasgow

United States back row Langilangi Haupeakui is to join Glasgow Warriors, subject to a visa and medical.

The 27-year-old has been playing for Sacramento Express in the American Pro League and has one USA cap to his name.

Langilangi was previously a team-mate of Warriors' Folau Niua at East Palo Alto Razorbacks in Northern California.

"There was interest from other clubs, but joining Glasgow was an easy decision," said Haupeakui, who is expected to complete a two-year deal.

"I've heard a lot of positive things about the club and the city from Greg Peterson [Glasgow's Australia-born American lock] and I'm looking forward to getting over to Scotland to start training with the squad.

"I've watched a few Pro12 matches and I'm excited about the physicality and speed of the game.

"There are some great players who play in the back row at Glasgow, so I'm going to have to work very hard to earn my place, but it's a challenge I'm looking forward to."

Glasgow head coach Gregor Townsend added: "We've been working on getting Langilangi here for some time and we were aware that there was a lot of interest in him from other clubs.

"So we're delighted that he's joined us and we're looking forward to integrating him into our squad as soon as possible.

"He is a strong ball carrier and hits very hard in the tackle. There will be a lot for him to work on and learn about how we play, but he will bring a high level of physicality to our forward pack, as well as increasing our strength in depth in the back row."