Fiji wing Goneva leaves Newcastle Falcons to sign for Harlequins

Fiji wing Vereniki Goneva has left Newcastle Falcons to sign for Harlequins.

The 35-year-old arch finisher will link up with Paul Gustard's side for the new campaign, revealing the Twickenham outfit are his father's favourite club team.

Goneva lit up Newcastle with his three years at the Falcons, memorably paying tribute to Alan Shearer by copying the former England striker's celebration at St James' Park.

Now though he will slot into the void left at Quins by former Scotland wing Tim Visser's retirement.

"It's a real coup for us to secure the signing of Niki to bolster our squad from next season," said Harlequins boss Gustard.

"With Tim's retirement at the end of last season we have been looking to bring in quality to supplement our very exciting young wingers, and there is no doubt Niki is real quality.

"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."

Goneva boasts 20 tries in 55 caps, and has graced both Leicester and Newcastle with distinction.

"After playing in the Premiership for the last six years I am really excited to be joining Quins, whom I have always admired as one of the big English clubs," said Goneva.

"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, and 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."