SCOTTISH international back row forward Ross Beattie has signed for the Gwent Dragons subject to passing strenuous fitness tests next week.

The Dragons had hoped to confirm his move from Bristol Shoguns today but have been advised to leave the training tests for another seven days.

Beattie came through a medical at Newport yesterday and Dragons coach Mike Ruddock said: "He is looking in excellent shape."

Beattie, a member of the Scottish squad last season when he went on as a replacement against England and Italy, has been plagued by Achilles' tendon problems.

He has had tests to make sure he wears the right footwear to prevent any recurrence and medicals for his general fitness.

But before the Dragons complete any signing, Beattie will have to undergo a three kilometre run, speed tests over 55m 15m and 25m, squat tests and bench press tests.

"There is and has been quite a bit of analysis to do," said Ruddock, "and we don't want to rush things. The doctor thinks he needs one more week before taking the fitness tests we propose.

"But the doctors are very pleased with his rehabilitation progress. He looks in great shape because he has been doing other fitness exercises and I'd be very surprised if he failed the tests next week."

Meanwhile, Dragons chief executive David Jenkins has confirmed that talks are continuing with South African centre Robbie Fleck.

"There are a number of other clubs interested in him so it is not clear cut," he said.

"He is a quality player but because he doesn't qualify as a foreign player due to a British grandparent, then clubs are even more interested.

"We are still looking for an outside centre and if we don't get Robbie then we'll continue our search.

"We won't rush in, though, just because the season is looming as we want to get the right player for the Dragons."