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Gloucester capture Hook

London - Wales flyhalf James Hook has signed for Gloucester after Perpignan's relegation from the French Top 14, the English Premiership club announced on Tuesday.

"Gloucester Rugby are delighted to confirm that James Hook has agreed to move to Kingsholm, a major coup for the club ahead of the 2014-15 season," read a statement on the Gloucester website.

Hook, 28, is believed to have signed a three-year contract with Gloucester and was presented to the media during a press conference in Hensol, south Wales, where he is currently on international duty with Wales.

"I was fortunate to have a number of options, but what stood out for me when I spoke to (Gloucester chief executive) Stephen Vaughan was how much Gloucester wanted me to be part of their plans," said Hook.

"They have huge ambitions and made it clear to me the role they wanted me to play in that. The talent in the squad is terrific, the training facilities are top-notch and it's a wonderful area for myself and my family to settle in.

"And I had a taste of the Kingsholm atmosphere last season when I played here for Perpignan. That was phenomenal and I can't wait to experience that again."

Vaughan oversaw Hook's transfer after rugby director Nigel Davies was sacked by Gloucester last month following a disappointing season that saw the club finish ninth in the Premiership.

Hook, who also played at full-back for Perpignan, will join up with Gloucester after touring South Africa with Wales during the close season.

He joined Perpignan in 2011 but decided to leave after the Catalan giants suffered a shock relegation from the Top 14 this season.

"I would like to thank everyone at Perpignan for the past three years, which have been memorable," Hook added.

"It's very disappointing to see the side relegated, but I'm sure they will bounce right back and I sincerely hope they do so."

Hook's arrival means that fellow new signing Greig Laidlaw, the Scotland international, will probably be asked to play at scrum-half.

Hook, who has won 75 caps for Wales, will take over at fly-half from Freddie Burns, who has agreed to join Leicester.

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