Leicester Tigers sign scrum-half Tom Whiteley from Bristol Bears

Leicester Tigers have announced the signing of scrum-half Tom Whiteley with immediate effect on a long-term deal.

Whiteley has been granted an early release from Bristol Bears after being part of the Ashton Gate based club since 2021.

A product of Academy squads with Bristol and Harlequins, he made his senior debut with Saracens in 2014 and has gone on to play 62 appearances for the club.

He also had loan stints with Cambridge, Bishop's Stortford, Old Albanians, Rosslyn Park and Bedford Blues before joining Bristol.

The 27-year-old will provide cover as England duo Ben Youngs and Jack van Poortvliet set to leave for Six Nations campaign.

“I am very excited to be joining Tigers, as the club builds on last season’s Premiership success," he told the club's official website.

“It’s a club with a proud history and a bright future.

“I know Richard Wigglesworth well from our days at Saracens. His knowledge and energy are unbelievable.”

Leicester are positioned seventh in the Gallagher Premiership table with five wins from 12 matches.