WALES Under-20s captain Harri Ackerman has followed fellow promising centre Joe Westwood in signing a three-year contract with the Dragons.

The 19-year-old from Newbridge made an impressive start to life with the Rodney Parade club’s seniors after making his debut in the Challenge Cup win against Oyonnax.

Ackerman starred in the New Year’s Day win against the Scarlets and made five appearances before suffering a broken leg on international duty.

The teenager is targeting a comeback early in next season and head coach Dai Flanagan is excited about his young centres pushing for more action, with Sio Tomkinson and Max Clark set for the exit.

South Wales Argus: DEAL: Dragons centre Harri AckermanDEAL: Dragons centre Harri Ackerman (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“The ceiling is so high for Harri. He has a fantastic career ahead of him so the news that he wants to do that as a Dragon is a huge boost for us all,” said the head coach.

“Harri is another big man in our midfield and a real ball-playing centre who makes so much happen around him.

“He will compete with the likes of Aneurin Owen and Steff Hughes for the 12 jersey going forward and we’re excited to see him return to the field following his successful rehabilitation.

“Both Harri and Joe are Gwent boys who want to be successful at our club. Contracting both in the long-term is a huge boost for our midfield options going forward.”

READ MORE: Westwood signs Dragons deal

Ackerman, who has developed with Newport RFC in the Premiership, will miss the World Rugby U20 Championship but will then aim to push on with the Dragons.

“My focus now is fully on my recovery and making a successful return next season,” he said. “My thanks to all the supporters for their support and continued well wishes.”