Argentina international Santiago Grondona to join Bristol

Bristol Bears have announced the signing of Argentina forward Santiago Grondona ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Grondona made his professional rugby debut with Super Rugby side Jaguares in 2019 before moving to Exeter Chiefs in 2021.

The 25-year-old joined French club Pau in February and has played 14 times for Argentina since making his international debut in 2020.

“I am very eager to arrive in Bristol to meet my new teammates, and I’m really looking forward to working with Pat," he told the club's official website.

“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 director of rugby Pat Lam is delighted with Grondona joining the squad.

“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.”