Gloucester's director of rugby Nigel Davies has confirmed that the club have completed the signing of Tonga international Lua Lokotui.
Lokotui, who was part of the Tonga squad that took part in the Autumn Internationals, will bring "a big physical presence" to the club, according to Davies.
"We've effectively been a man down since Alex Brown injured his shoulder in the opening game of the season. Jim Hamilton and Will James have been superb, and Tom Savage has done a great job there when required," he told reporters.
"But, with Elliott Stooke also currently injured, we did need to bring someone else in. Another injury would have left us seriously stretched.
"We've taken our time and made sure that we're bringing in someone who will add to what we already have, on and off the field. Lua brings a big physical presence and international experience to the table and we're delighted to welcome him on board."
The 32-year-old was also a member of the Tonga squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.