GLOUCESTER have boosted their squad ahead of the 2015-16 season by signing two bright young talents in the game.

Tom Marshall will move to Kingsholm from Super Rugby's Chiefs and Billy Burn, a member of England's U20 World Cup-winning side, has extended his deal at Gloucester.

Auckland-born Marshall, 24, is David Humphreys' first outside signing since coming to the club as director of rugby.

Marshall is a former New Zealand U20 international who has represented Tasman Makos in the ITM Cup and the Crusaders and Chiefs in Super Rugby.

Having played 56 games for the very successful Crusaders in Super XV, Tom moved to the Chiefs in 2013 and was involved in every game of this year's competition.

He is capable of playing at centre, on the wing or at full back.

Humphreys told the club website: "Tom is still only 24 and we believe his best years are ahead of him in a Gloucester shirt.

"He's got good physical presence but is also a top quality footballer, whose versatility will give us a number of options across the back line and we look forward to him linking up with us once his contractual obligations to the NZRU have ended.”

Meanwhile, Marshall spoke with enthusiasm about the prospect of testing himself in the northern hemisphere.

"I'm very excited about the move to Gloucester. The club plays an exciting brand of rugby and offers a great playing opportunity with exceptional coaching and training facilities."

Burns, 20, made his first start for the Cherry and Whites against Worcester Warriors, alongside elder brother Freddie, on the final day of the 2013-14 Aviva Premiership season and, to date, has made 13 first team appearances.

Burns, alongside team-mates Callum Braley, Ross Moriarty and Henry Purdy, were part of the England U20 squad that successfully defended their Junior World Championship title in New Zealand this summer.

The young fly half is the latest first team player to agree terms on a new deal in recent weeks, following in the footsteps of Matt Kvesic, Jonny May, Ross Moriarty and Gareth Evans.

Director of Rugby David Humphreys said: "Billy has shown that he has all the attributes to be successful in a Cherry and White shirt, and his attitude and application to learn have been top notch.

"He is always willing to take on advice from the likes of James (Hook) and Greig (Laidlaw) and we are delighted he has agreed to continue his development as a professional player at Gloucester.

Burns; said: "I'm delighted to be extending my time at the club. I've been really pleased with how my game has come on during my time here, and am really excited to continue working with the players and coaches in this squad.

"It's a great honour for me that the coaches believe in me, and a big opportunity for me to continue my learning and development at such a great club.”