Cardiff Blues have today completed the signing of Samoan international Freddie Tuilagi from Leicester Tigers.
The Blindside wing or Centre has agreed to a one year contract with the Blues and will join the squad in July.
Announcing the signing, Blues chief executive Robert Norster, said:
Freddie is a player of vast experience given his achievements at both club and international level. Not only that but he is also an experienced rugby league professional and a clinical try scorer in both codes with a dynamic style that has delighted supporters throughout the rugby world. His direct approach to the game will add an exciting new dimension to our existing back line. We also hope he will prove to be invaluable in helping to nuture our other young talent and will be a significant asset especially given our likely international absentees throughout the domestic season.
Freddie Tuilagi played some 16 international matches for Samoa and soon caught the eye of rugby league coaches and during the Ninties starred for both Halifax and St Helens.
Freddie signed with Leicester Tigers in June 2000 and was part of the team that defeated Munster in the Heineken Cup final at the Millennium Stadium in 2002.
Head coach David Young said,
The acquisition of Freddie is great news for the Blues. We have been looking for a player who can step up and make an impact on the game both offensively and defensively. His direct style of play coupled with his blistering pace will add yet another dimension to our exciting back line. Like the other signings we have made during the off-season, Im sure Freddie will be of benefit both on and off the field.