Powerhouse Argentinian back row Santiago Grondona has joined Bristol Bears, the club can confirm.
The 14-cap Puma, who can operate across the back row and in the second row, made a mid-season switch from Exeter Chiefs to French Top 14 side Pau in February 2023.
The 24-year-old played a starring role for Argentina in their dramatic last-gasp victory over Australia, making ten tackles as the Pumas won 31-34.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Santiago is a versatile, powerful back row forward and we’re pleased to bring in a player of his quality to bolster the depth in our pack ahead of the new season.
“He has been outstanding in international rugby over the past 12 months and continues to go from strength to strength. He will add huge value to us on and off the field and we look forward to him joining up with the squad.”
Grondona said: “I am very eager to arrive in Bristol to meet my new teammates, and I’m really looking forward to working with Pat.
“Playing at Ashton Gate in front of our fans is going to be amazing too and I will give everything to make sure we achieve our goals this season.
Bristol Bears confirm seven new signings for next season
Pat Lam, the Bristol Bears boss, has undertaken an extensive squad reconstruction endeavor in the wake of the exits of more than 20 players, which includes the likes of Charles Piutau and Semi Radradra.
Bristol Bears Signings for 2023/24 Season:
#1. Max Malins (Saracens)
Bristol Bears have bolstered their ranks with the full signing of England winger Max Malins, with the added bonus of securing the star from Premiership rivals Saracens. Bears fans are familiar with Malins, as he signed on loan during the 2020/21 season, and even scored in Bristol’s victorious Challenge Cup Final that year.
Malins ended the 2022/23 Premiership season as the joint-third highest try scorer, as he scored 11 tries for Saracens. Malins has previously been crowned the Premiership’s top try scorer, as he ended the 2021/22 Premiership season at top spot with 16 tries.
Bristol have certainly signed an undeniable try-machine, in what is an exciting addition for the Ashton Gate faithful. Malins has the added team chemistry of joining up with several England teammates at the Bears, as the likes of Kyle Sinckler and Ellis Genge will make the move a seamless transition for Malins.
Despite England not having a memorable Six Nations by their standards, Malins was impressive on the international stage earlier this year. The 26-year-old scored two tries, and set up a further one for England, whilst making 244 metres with the ball in the process. Bristol fans will have all eyes on Malins at the Rugby World Cup, with the winger ready to showcase his talents once again.
#2. Kieran Marmion (Connacht)
The 31-year-old, who has 28 caps for his country, links back up with Pat Lam having won the Pro 12 title together in 2016. Marmion has made 222 appearances for Connacht during an 11-year spell at the province.
Marmion made his international debut against Argentina in 2014 and was Ireland’s starting scrum half when they edged out the All Blacks in Dublin in 2018.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Once Andy Uren had requested an early release, we began the search for a possible replacement – someone with experience who would be the right fit for our team.
“I’m really pleased to be able to bring in Kieran Marmion – an international scrum half with vast experience who will bring huge value to us on and off the field.
“Having worked closely with him in the past, I know he is exactly the perfect replacement to fill the void following the release of Andy to Benetton Treviso at the end of the season.”
Marmion added: “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to represent the Bristol Bears on and off the field.
“I’ve followed them closely over the last few years and I’m really looking fo