RaboDirect Pro 12 League region Newport Gwent Dragons have signed Samoan international centre Anitelea "Andy" Tuilagi from Sale Sharks on a 2-year deal.

The 25 year old, who can also play on the wing, joins the men of Gwent has from Premiership side Sale Sharks where he made 42 appearances over 3 seasons, despite a layoff with a broken arm.

Tuilagi has played for Leicester Tigers and Leeds Carnegie, as well as a stint of Rugby League at St Helens before choosing Union as his code of choice.

"Andy is exactly what we want in our back line," said Dragons Head Coach Darren Edwards.

"We were keen to look at the strengths we have within our squad and make careful signings based on players who we feel will add to our game. Having worked with Andy at Leeds, I’m very aware of his qualities as a player and am confident that he will be successful at Rodney Parade.

"We have a great deal of skill and pace in our backs and Andy will bring a physicality and a line-breaking ability that will really compliment our current squad."

The Samoan’s potential signing at the Dragons has been the cause of media speculation for several months, but regional Director of Rugby Rob Beale confirmed the signing this week which had been delayed by red tape.

"This has been a very long process for the Dragons and for Andy," he said. "I know there has been media speculation over the past couple of months, but we had to ensure that this deal was done properly and that Andy had the necessary documentation in place before the signing was made.

"Having said that, Andy’s reputation speaks for itself and I am confident that the wait will be well worth it."
Media will have the opportunity to interview Tuilagi at the region's press conference today, 2pm, Bisley Stand, Rodney Parade

Anitelea "Andy" Tuilagi
DOB 6th May 1986
Height 1.85 m (6' 1")
Weight 96 kg (15st 1lb)
Position Centre
Honours Samoa