Italy's Michele Campagnaro heads to Wasps for remainder of season

Wasps have confirmed the signing of Italy international Michele Campagnaro for the remainder of the 2018/19 season.

Campagnaro will head to the Ricoh Arena at the conclusion of Italy's ongoing autumn international campaign as they are set to face Australia and New Zealand on 17th and 24th November respectively.

The former Italy Under 20 centre made his professional rugby debut with Benetton Treviso and he made 34 appearances for the French club before he moved to Exeter Chiefs post 2015 World Cup.

Campagnaro impressed in the Premiership scoring nine tries in 27 appearances for the Sandy Park outfit and was part of the squad that reached the final last two seasons with them winning the title in the 2016/17 season.

“The opportunity to join Wasps was something no player can turn down," he said.

“Wasps play an exciting brand of rugby and have a number of talented individuals. I’m very much looking forward to testing myself and playing at the Ricoh Arena.”

The 25-year-old was released from the Exeter Chiefs contract prior to the autumn international campaign for Italy and overall he has played in 36 Tests for the national side scoring nine tries in it.

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young believes Campagnaro's inclusion will provide the squad with more flexibility.

“Michele is an experienced international who predominantly plays at 13, but having also played on the wing and at 15, his versatility will be of huge benefit to the team throughout the season.

“He joins us with some real pedigree and we’re looking forward to integrating him into the squad.”