Newcastle Falcons have signed Argentina scrum-half Simon Benitez Cruz on a two-year deal.
The 25-year-old, who is part of the Pumas squad preparing for the upcoming Rugby Championship which begins on Saturday, will join international team-mate Eduardo Bello at Kingston Park.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be joining Newcastle, a club which has such a strong affiliation with Argentinian players,” Cruz told the club website., external
“I’m confident this is the right move for me, and I can’t wait to pull on my Newcastle shirt in front of all our amazing fans.”
Cruz made his Test debut for the Pumas in their victory over the British and Irish Lions and played in both internationals against England over the summer.
“He has gone well during his first few involvements for Argentina, he is a big running threat and we really see a lot of potential in him,” said Newcastle director of rugby Steve Diamond.
Falcons, who finished bottom of the Premiership last season, are close to being taken over by drinks giant Red Bull.
