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'An outstanding young talent': Benjamin Elizalde's PREM switch is confirmed
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Bristol Bears full-back Benjamín Elizalde admits that he is ready to give everything after being announced as Newcastle Red Bulls’ latest signing ahead of next season.
RugbyPass exclusively revealed on Monday that the Red Bulls had signed the Argentina international on a two-year deal after falling down the Bears pecking order since the arrival of Wales superstar Louis Rees-Zammit at Ashton Gate last summer.
Elizalde, who has won four Test caps, will become the second Los Pumas star to arrive in the North East this summer after Newcastle announced the arrival of lock, Franco Molina, from Western Force when his deal runs out later this year.
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The Red Bulls are already home to Argentina tighthead Eduardo Bello, who was signed on a one-year contract last August, and scrum-half Simón Benitez-Cruz will be at the club next season after signing a two-year deal last summer.
The former Puma Under-20 international was courted by several French Top 14 clubs, having been marked out as one to watch by Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi, with Castres and Clermont Auvergne in particular paying close attention to him.
The 21-year-old, who plays centre or wing, has scored five tries in 27 matches during his two seasons with Bristol, says that he is delighted to be moving to the North-East next season.
“I’m excited to start a new chapter with Newcastle Red Bulls, and I’m looking forward to being there and meeting everyone. It’s an honour to join a club with such a rich history and strong identity.
“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and am ready to give my all to grow as a player and contribute to the team’s future,” said Elizalde.
Red Bulls Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said, “Benjamín is an outstanding young talent with skill and athleticism in abundance.
“He has already made his international breakthrough and has a couple of Gallagher PREM seasons under his belt, but there is plenty more to come from him.”
