NEWCASTLE FALCONS have strengthened their front-row options with the signing of Argentina international Juan Pablo Orlandi from Bath.

The prop began his career with Italian side Rovigo and spent five seasons with French Top 14 side Racing Metro before joining Bath midway through last season.

With 15 full international caps to his name, the move to Falcons will see Orlandi reunited with Gonzalo Tiesi, who he made his international debut alongside against France in November 2008, and will also see him link up with another prominent Argentinian, Juan Pablo Socino.

Capable of covering on either side of the front row, Orlandi has gained himself a reputation as a powerful and dynamic prop, and his arrival will help provide cover for injury and international absences in the second half of the season.

Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: “We’re delighted to be able to bring a player of Juan Pablo’s calibre into the club.

“Over recent months we've seen a number of front row players unavailable for selection due to injury and international duties, and to be able to add Juan Pablo to our options in that area provides us with greater depth on either side of the scrum.

“Juan Pablo is a strong guy who has already proven he can make an impact at the highest level, and we look forward to integrating him into our side over the coming weeks.”