Gloucester have secured a major coup for next season by signing World Cup-winning South African lock Jean Kleyn, the struggling Premiership club announced on Tuesday.
The 32-year-old will join the Cherry and Whites after spending a decade with Irish province Munster, where he established himself as one of European rugby’s most formidable second-rowers.
Kleyn has earned 10 caps for the Springboks since making his debut in 2023 and played a crucial role in South Africa’s World Cup triumph that year, coming off the bench during the final victory against New Zealand. His international career boasts an unusual distinction, having previously represented Ireland in five matches, including two at the 2019 World Cup, after qualifying on residency grounds.
Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington expressed his delight at securing Kleyn’s signature. “Jean is a player I’ve admired for a long time,” Skivington said. “He brings real edge, experience, and a winning mentality, which will be invaluable for our group.”
The towering lock arrives at Kingsholm with an impressive trophy cabinet, having won the 2022-23 United Rugby Championship title with Munster. “I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season,” Kleyn said. “It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan-base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career.”
Gloucester desperately need reinforcements as they languish ninth on the 10-team Premiership table, battling to avoid relegation. However, the club have demonstrated ambition in the transfer market, with Kleyn becoming their fourth signing for next season. He joins an impressive list of new recruits that includes Wales internationals Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake, plus experienced scrum-half Dan Robson.
The Springbok’s arrival signals Gloucester’s determination to rebuild and climb away from the relegation zone, adding much-needed international pedigree to their forward pack.
