Gloucester complete the signing of Italy international Tommaso d'Apice

Tommaso d'Apice: Has agreed a deal with Gloucester

Gloucester have announced the signing of Tommaso d'Apice after the Italy international impressed on trial.

The 24-year-old hooker, who has won 10 caps, has been training at Kingsholm during the summer after his former club Aironi was disbanded.

And having caught the eye during the friendlies against Leinster and Doncaster and the A team clash with Worcester Cavaliers, d'Apice has now been handed a full-time contract.

Gloucester director of rugby Nigel Davies said: "Tommaso has been on trial here for just over a month now. He's an international hooker who has played for Italy in the Six Nations and in the World Cup.

"The big thing for Tommaso is to get the opportunity to play at the highest level in English club rugby. He's a young aspiring player and wants to play for a team that can help to develop his game.

"He's committed a lot to coming here. He could probably have gone to other clubs for a lot more money but wanted to be part of this Gloucester team and we're delighted to have him on board."