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Joel Sclavi's next destination is confirmed after talks with several PREM clubs
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Argentina tighthead prop Joel Sclavi has signed for Leicester Tigers ahead of next season.
The 31-year-old has spent the last three seasons with La Rochelle, winning the Investec Champions Cup in his debut season, but his contract is due to expire at the end of the season.
RugbyPass had previously reported that the 33-cap Puma had held talks with both Gloucester and Leicester, but the Tigers have secured the deal ahead of their Gallagher PREM rivals, just days after beating them at Villa Park.
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Capable of playing either side of the scrum, the Argentine will add depth to the front-row at Welford Road, with Nicky Smith set to join Sale Sharks at the end of the season.
Sclavi will double Leicester’s Argentinian influence upon his arrival, joining compatriot Joaquín Moro at the club, who signed a contract extension earlier this month.
“I’m proud and happy to be part of a club with so much history and identity,” the prop said after signing.
“I am really looking forward to what is ahead at Leicester Tigers.”
Tigers Head coach Geoff Parling added: “We know how highly we value our set-piece so we were looking at someone who could add both quality and depth on both sides of the scrum, of which Joel’s size and strength will be a real asset.”
“After proving himself in the Top 14 he was hungry for a new challenge, so we look forward to welcoming Joel, his wife Charo and his son Ciro to our squad.”
