Edinburgh head coach Richard Cockerill has added South African utility-back Henry Immelman to his playing roster for next season, with the 25-year-old joining the capital outfit from Montpellier in the summer on a contract which will run for an undisclosed period of time. 

Initially from the Free State, Immelman joined Montpellier in the summer of 2016, and has now made 75 appearances for the French Top 14 side scoring 13 tries. 

“I was really excited when I heard about Edinburgh being interested in me,” he said. “After five seasons in France, I was considering a new experience in another league, so it was a no brainer. 

“It’s an amazing club with a lot of history and, after speaking to Richard Cockerill [Edinburgh Head Coach], the vision was clear where they saw me fitting in and how I can contribute. 

“The PRO14 – especially with the potential for the four new South African sides joining next season – will be a really great league to be part of and hopefully we’ll see Edinburgh do great things. 

“I just want to get there, do my best, play rugby and experience a new home, a new competition and see what I can give back to Edinburgh.” 

Cockerill explained that the recruitment of Immelman will give Edinburgh valuable depth in the wide channels, with the new man experienced at playing centre, wing and full-back. 

“We’re delighted to announce Henry has signed for us despite a number of offers from elsewhere,” said Cockerill. 

“He’s a very good player, a big physical ball carrier, with a big boot on him and will really intensify the competition for places in a number of areas in our squad next season. 

“He’ll certainly add to our threat in the wide channels where we’ve already got some quality options and players coming through the system. 

“We’re putting together a really exciting group for the new season, one which we hope our supporters can see taking shape and can visualise running out before a big crowd at the new stadium.”