GLOUCESTER prop Sila Puafisi is to leave the club and join Glasgow Warriors.

The Tongan international will move to Scotland once his Rugby World Cup 2015 commitments with Tonga are complete.

The 27 year old tight-head has been granted an early release from his contract with the Cherry and Whites to make the move north, with Gloucester possessing a number of options in that position in John Afoa, Paul Doran-Jones and Nicky Thomas.

Puafisi signed for Gloucester in November 2013 following the conclusion of Tonga's Autumn international tour that year.  He joined from the Tasman Makos who he had helped to win the 2013 ITM Championship.

In his time at the club, he made 35 appearances in total, including fifteen starts and scored one try.

Director of Rugby David Humphreys explained that the move will offer Puafisi greater playing opportunities.

He said: "Over the past 12 months Sila has been frustrated at the lack of first team opportunities in the Aviva Premiership.

"John Afoa's level of performances during that time have been outstanding and with the new front row signings at Gloucester for the 15/16 season, Glasgow will provide Sila with a new opportunity to further his playing career.

"Everyone at the club has enjoyed working with Sila over the past 20 months and we wish him every success for the future.”