Rob Horne’s future in NSW colours became a little murkier on Monday when the Waratahs confirmed the signing of Queensland Reds centre Jono Lance for the 2014 Super Rugby season.

The Waratahs also announced the signing of promising back-rower Tala Gray for next year, but it is the recruitment of Lance that will have NSW fans concerned about losing Horne, who is off contract at the end of the season.

Having made his Super Rugby debut for Queensland in their 2011 title-winning season, Lance will provide a skills set and hard edge that Waratahs coach Michael Cheika says will make him a valuable addition to the squad.

“Jono brings a dual running and ball distribution game, and he is an excellent defender, said Cheika.

“He has all the qualities to fit the profile of what we are looking for. Along with that, he has an excellent character and that is a very important feature in our recruitment criteria.”

Born in Canberra, 22-year-old Lance has represented Australia in sevens and at under-20s level and is the son of former Canberra Raiders rugby league captain Dean Lance.

The midfielder has strong family ties to the central coast and Narrabri, where two generations of the Lance family were brought up.

“I’ve got a lot of friends in NSW and I’m excited by the opportunity to be playing there,” he said.

“From Michael and everyone that I’ve spoken to, the players are enjoying everything they are doing down there at the moment and there are exciting times ahead.”

Currently playing for French Top 14 side Biarritz, 23-year-old Gray formerly played for Eastern Suburbs in Sydney club rugby.

He spent the 2010 and 2011 seasons playing Shute Shield for Easts before moving to Biarritz in 2012, where he was part of the victorious Amlin Challenge Cup side.

“He’s the type of player we’re looking for,” Cheika said.

“Rugged in attack and defence, Tala is a strong ball carrier and a big worker. He also has a bit of an edge which I really like in players and he is hungry to prove himself back in Australia.”