Gloucester deny reports claiming Carl Fearns not joining Cherry and Whites this summer

Gloucester Rugby have turned down reports claiming that former England Saxons player Carl Fearns will not join the Cherry and Whites this summer.

The reports which emerged from France stated that the 27-year-old wants to extend his stay with the Top 14 club Lyon for another term but Gloucester Rugby have responded back issuing a statement describing it as "unfounded and unwelcome".

"Gloucester Rugby have today responded to a story in the French press alleging that Carl Fearns will not be joining the club in the summer ahead of the 2017-18 season," read a Gloucester statement.

"Carl Fearns has signed a long-term contract with Gloucester Rugby and is a key part of the club's plans moving forward. His arrival is keenly anticipated and we very much look forward to welcoming him to Kingsholm.

"As the first of the club's external signings announced for next season, Carl will be a key player in Gloucester colours. His superb form for Lyon this season has understandably caught the eye of many observers.

"However, Carl has committed his long-term future to Gloucester Rugby from next season, and any stories suggesting otherwise are both unfounded and unwelcome."

It was in November last year, Gloucester announced that Fearns had signed a three-year contract with the Aviva Premiership side.

The statement from Gloucester further added that they received a request from Lyon to reconsider their decision on acquiring the services of Fearns which they declined.

"The club were contacted by Lyon recently to ask whether we would consider releasing Carl from the contract that he signed back in November, an approach which Gloucester Rugby turned down," continued the Gloucester statement.

"Having secured Carl's signature on a long-term contract, we are disappointed to have to comment on this type of speculation."