The utility back has been with the province for eight years

Leinster utility back Noel Reid is to join the Leicester Tigers for next season.

The 28-year-old - who has played 120 times for the province since his debut in October 2011 - has agreed a deal with the Premiership side, who now look set to avoid relegation after a difficult campaign.

Despite featuring 20 times this season, with five of those coming in the Heineken Champions Cup, Reid has opted to move abroad , where he will link up with former Irish international Geordan Murphy.

The centre - who can also cover at outhalf - says it's a difficult decision to move on from his home province, but is ready to take on a new challenge.

"It’s obviously sad to be leaving my home club and the club that I supported growing up.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time here working with brilliant coaches and great players, and playing in front of amazing supporters at the RDS and at the Aviva. So to move away from that is not a decision that I have taken lightly.

Best of luck, Noelie! Not mad on Tigers normally but in your case I will make an exception. 🦁🐯@nreid90 https://t.co/BucpaREqJP

— Leo the Lion (@LeinsterLeo) April 22, 2019

"I’d like to thank my family and friends and all those that have supported me on this journey with Leinster, a journey that really kicked on in school in St. Michael’s College and I’m very grateful to all that played a part.

"That being said, I’m very excited to be joining a club like Leicester, with its history and success in the game, and to become a Tigers player next season.

"Leinster and this place will always be special to me and I hope to finish the season as strongly as possible and hopefully with some silverware with a special group of players," he says.

In his 120 appearances for the province, Reid touched down 17 times. Leicester head coach Geordan Murphy says Reid is a player that have been tracking for a while.

"I’ve been aware of Noel’s qualities for some time in a very successful Leinster set-up and I’m very happy to be able to bring him to Welford Road.

"He is a natural footballer and a versatile player who has worked with top-class players at Leinster and Ireland.

"That experience will be very important to us over a tough and competitive season, and we look forward to seeing his influence within the squad here."

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