NEWCASTLE have re-signed centre Tane Tu’ipulotu on a two-year deal from Japanese club Yamaha Jubilo.

Tu’ipulotu, the former Junior All Black, is the Falcons’ fourth signing this week following the arrivals of Rory Lawson, Carlo del Fava and Scott MacLeod.

Newcastle’s immediate future remains uncertain as they wait for the outcome of the Championship final to discover whether they will be relegated.

But Tu’ipulotu is excited by the prospect of playing under new director of rugby Dean Richards.

‘‘I am truly grateful for the opportunity,’’ Tu’ipulotu told the Falcons’ official website.

‘‘When I initially left the Falcons for Japan it was a very hard decision for me and my family to make.

‘‘During my time away Semore Kurdi has taken over the club, and it is great to see the progress that has been made under his leadership, especially with the appointment of Dean Richards.’’ Newcastle say that more signings are set to be announced in the coming days.