Harlequins are closing in on signing London Irish youngster Ben Loader to replace the departing Gabriel Ibitoye.
The 22-year-old, who has been a regular ‘apprentice’ under Eddie Jones, has left Quins to sign a two-year contract with Agen, meaning he will no longer be eligible for international selection.
#Harlequins Rumour has it looking at Ben Loader as replacement for Gabs. For Irish 2018/19 season 18 appearances and scoring 13 tries in the process
— Friends Of The stoop (@QuinsFOTS) August 9, 2020
The winger’s impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England XV squad to take on the Barbarians in June 2019. pic.twitter.com/HVfQMB4m4y
According to The Rugby Paper, Loader could be set to make the switch to Twickenham Stoop as a like-for-like replacement.
Loader forced his way into the 2018/19 Championship winning team, making 18 appearances and scoring 13 tries in the process before playing for the Exiles in the Gallagher Premiership.
The 21-year-old’s impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England XV squad to take on the Barbarians in June 2019.
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5. Niki Goneva (Harlequins)
Described by the club as ‘a real coup’ and ‘deadly finisher’ when the winger joined from relegated Newcastle Falcons last summer. However, it appears that the 35-year-old, who has been a prolific try scorer throughout his career, is finally starting to slow down. He didn’t cross the whitewash in his six Premiership outings for Quins this season.
