Newcastle have announced the signing of Tonga international prop Taione Vea from London Welsh. The Auckland-born 26-year-old, who has won six caps for Tonga, will join the Falcons on a two-year deal in time for the 2015-16 season. Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said of the former Wasps and North Harbour front-rower: 'We're pleased to be able to add Taione to the squad for the next season. He's a quality prop who is a great scrummager and equally strong on the loose work too. Taione Vea (centre) has signed for Newcastle Falcons on a two-year deal from current club London Welsh . Vea breaks through a challenge for London Welsh against Northampton Saints last year . 'As a Tongan international he brings a powerful and skilled head to our front row, although he's also a very humble guy who I know will fit in well with our squad.' The 6ft2in 20-stone Vea, who joined London Welsh from Wasps last summer, said: 'I've spoken with Dean about his plans for Newcastle Falcons and his vision on where the club is going and it sounds like something I want to be involved with. 'I'm still learning a lot and want to get more Premiership experience so I'm looking forward to doing that at Newcastle Falcons.' Vea has six caps for Tonga and previously played for Wasps before moving to join London Welsh last summer .
Newcastle have signed Tonga prop Taione Vea from London Welsh . Falcons tie 26-year-old down to a two-year deal in time for 2015-16 season . Director of rugby Dean Richards praises prop as a 'great scrummager'