Italy prop on his way to Edinburgh

Editor

Edinburgh have further strengthened their squad ahead of next season with the signing of Italian international prop Pietro Ceccarelli.

The 11-times capped tighthead – who currently plays for Top 14 side Oyonnax – has penned a one-year deal and will join the PRO14 outfit in the summer.

Ceccarelli made his Test debut against Ireland in the 2016 Six Nations and featured against Scotland during the Azzuri’s 34-15 Summer Test defeat in Singapore last June.

On securing a move to Edinburgh, Ceccarelli said: "I’m extremely happy and honoured to join Edinburgh next season. I’m really excited for this new experience.

"The PRO14 is a competition that I know well, but this new challenge in a different country, with a different rugby culture, will only make me a better rugby player.

"I’m looking forward to giving my all for Edinburgh.”

Head coach Richard Cockerill added: "Pietro is a combatable tighthead who’s had experience playing in both the French Top 14 and on the international stage.

"His arrival next season will only add to our strength and depth in the front-row."

Ceccarelli, 26, started his career with Rome-based Lazio Rugby Club before securing a move to French side La Rochelle in 2012.

Following a brief spell with Federal 2 team AS Macon, the prop returned to his native Italy to sign for PRO14 outfit Zebre in 2015.

In two seasons at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi Ceccar, Ceccarelli made 46 appearances before moving to current club Oyonnax at the start of the current season.