Gloucester have signed former New Zealand fly-half Carlos Spencer after he was released by Guinness Premiership rivals Northampton.

The 33-year-old left Franklin's Gardens by mutual consent last week and Gloucester head coach Dean Ryan moved quickly to secure the services of the experienced playmaker.

"It's a great coup for us," Ryan said. "Understandably given his quality, experience and availability, there were a number of clubs keen to sign him and I am delighted we have got there first.

"Carlos will give us something a little bit different – a mystique and an ability to function at the highest possible level.

"He has huge international experience with the All Blacks and we believe he will be a great asset should we progress into the knockout stages of competitions later in the season. I am delighted that such an outstanding professional has agreed to join us."