Harlequins utility back Mark McLinden is to switch codes after signing a two-year deal with Super 14 outfit Queensland Reds.

The 29-year-old former Canberra player negotiated a release from the last 12 months of his contract with Harlequins to enable him to return to Australia.

He has now been snapped up by the Reds as a direct replacement for his former Canberra team-mate Clinton Schifcofske, who is joining Ulster for next season.