London Irish confirm Leguizamon deal

London Irish yesterday announced the signing of Argentina number eight Juan Manuel Leguizamon.

The 22-year-old, who has three international caps, was a member of the Pumas side that drew with the Lions in Cardiff last month and finished second behind England at the recent Churchil Cup.

Leguizamon is the latest of a string of new recruits to join the Exiles, as director of rugby Brian Smith plans for next season.

“Juan Manuel joins our experienced, back-row specialists - Kieron Dawson, Paul Gustard, Phil Murphy and Olivier Magne. I have no doubt that he will benefit from playing with them and contribute enormously to our pack.”

Leguizamon joins from the San Isidro Club, just north of Buenos Aires, and follows the likes of Magne, Danie Coetzee, Michael Collins, Riki Flutey, Ben Willis and James Storey in signing for the Exiles.