NEWCASTLE FALCONS have signed Harlequins back Tim Swiel, with the 25-year-old available for immediate selection.

Swiel gives the Falcons an alternative option at fly-half and full-back, and can also play right across the backline.

The versatile attacker has spent the last four seasons with Harlequins, having previously played for South African Super Rugby side the Sharks and Currie Cup outfit Western Province.

He made 48 senior appearances for Harlequins, with 30 of those outings coming in the Premiership and 12 seeing him feature in European competition.

“Tim is a player I've admired for some time,” said Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards. “He plays the game at pace, he is someone who makes things happen in attack and he will fit perfectly into the way we play.

“The fact that he can play multiple positions is another major plus point, and we look forward to seeing him being integrated into our squad.”