London Irish confirm trio signing ahead of Premiership return

London Irish have confirmed the signings of Manasa Saulo, Teofilo Paulo and Jake Schatz ahead of the next season which will see them return to the Aviva Premiership.

Fiji international Saulo started his professional rugby career with Timisoara Saracens in 2014 before joining French club Toulon in 2016. The 28-year-old has also been capped 30 times for his country.

New Zealand born Paulo has featured for Ulster, Super Rugby side Blues, Cardiff Blues and Benetton Treviso before his switch to London Irish while making 27 appearances for Samoa. Australia number eight Schatz will end his six-year association with Queensland Reds to be part of the Exiles.

London Irish rugby director Nick Kennedy is confident that the trio's signing will further boost the squad's strength.

"Manasa is a very good signing for us and he's got quality in the front row. He's a dynamic ball carrier with a hard edge in defence, who will no doubt improve our pack considerably.

"With his international experience, Teofilo is a very good addition who will further enhance the competition for places in the squad. I'm looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the team.

"Jake has played at the very highest level both domestically and internationally and he is a fantastic signing for us. He's an abrasive ball carrier, who is aggressive over the ruck and will add dynamism to the back row."