The Irish News understands that an agreement has been reached to bring ex-New Zealand U20s international out-half Aidan Morgan to Ulster.
With Ulster seeking to replace Billy Burns, who is heading to Munster on a one-year deal, 22-year-old Irish-qualified Morgan is understood to be making the move from New Zealand side Hurricanes to Belfast this summer.
If the move is confirmed as expected, it will end Ulster’s protracted quest for a new out-half having been recently rebuffed by 35-year-old former All Black Aaron Cruden.
With concerns that Burns’ departure would leave Richie Murphy’s side light in terms of depth at 10, Morgan will provide another option to Jake Flannery and Nathan Doak - who is primarily a scrum-half but has been asked to cover out-half at times this season.
Morgan has struggled for game-time at the Hurricanes this season, with stiff competition for the ten jersey from All-Black Brett Cameron and the versatile Ruben Love, who can cover full-back and out-half.
However, a move to Belfast could revive the career of the promising playmaker who will be keen for more playing opportunities at the Northern province.
It is also understood that 19-year-old out-half Jack Murphy, head coach Richie Murphy’s son, is set to join Ulster’s academy.
Murphy was impressive in the 10 jersey for Ireland’s Under-20s, featuring in all of their games during their most recent Six Nations campaign, which saw them finish second on points difference despite going unbeaten.
