MUNSTER HAVE ANNOUNCED the signing of centre Sammy Arnold from Ulster on a two-year deal.
The centre, who was born in England but is Irish qualified, played 11 times for the northern province but has decided to move to Limerick in search of greater opportunities.
The 19-year-old made his Pro12 debut for Ulster last season against Newport Gwent Dragons and made his first European appearance in last month’s win over Oyonnax.
“We are disappointed to lose a player of Sammy’s talent but we fully understand his position,” Ulster Director of Rugby, Les Kiss, said.
“He is an ambitious young man who wants to gain as much game time as possible, but with our current stocks at centre, we are unable to guarantee him a regular starting position.
“The age profile of some of our other young centres such as Stuart Olding (22), Stuart McCloskey (23) and Luke Marshall (24), along with the presence of experienced international players like Darren Cave and Jared Payne, has contributed to his decision.”
Arnold, who played eight times for Ireland U20s, will move to Thomond Park at the end of this season.
Munster have also confirmed hooker Duncan Casey has signed a new two-year contract and Sean McCarthy has put pen to paper on a development contract.
Casey is the latest in a line of home-grown talent to secure their future with the province. The 25-year-old has made 40 appearances for Munster, scoring five tries.
“Once again, today’s news speaks volumes about this group of players – they are committed to the province and are ambitious to achieve something together,” Anthony Foley commented.
