NEWCASTLE Falcons have continued their recruitment drive by signing Italy international Carlo del Fava.

Despite not yet knowing what league they will be playing in next season, Falcons are determined to press on with their squad restructuring programme.

Lock forward del Fava follows fellow second rower Scott MacLeod, who was unveiled earlier this week, and further additions are expected before the end of the month.

Del Fava was a member of the Italy squad at the last two World Cups, and has been a cornerstone of his nation's pack in a number of Six Nations Championships.

The South Africa-born 30-year-old, who has won 54 caps for the Azurri, has previously represented Natal Sharks, Parma, Bourgoin, Ulster, Viadana and Aironi.

“Newcastle Falcons are a club that is on the up and I am really looking forward to the challenge of playing in England,” said del Fava. “There are some exciting times ahead for the club, further strengthened by the appointment of Dean Richards as director of rugby.

“I am delighted to have signed for a club with a bright future and my family and I look forward to making a new home in the North-East.”