Benvenuti Adds Firepower To Bristol Backline

The 24 year old – who can play at centre, wing or full-back and can kick at goal – joins from Perpignan on a 18-month deal.

Benvenuti has earned thirty caps for Italy, representing his country in the 2011 Rugby World Cup and the RBS Six Nations.

“Tommaso is a talented young player who is capable of performing consistently at the very highest level,” Director of Rugby Andy Robinson told bristolrugby.co.uk.

“He arrives with a strong pedigree having played European Cup rugby for Treviso and played for Perpignan in the Top 14.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Tommaso into the squad. His experience and physical presence will help drive our performances.”

Benvenuti made 49 appearances in a successful spell at Treviso, before a move to Perpignan in the summer of 2013, where he has made 20 appearances, scoring three times.

He added: “I’m excited to take on this new challenge with Bristol Rugby. It’s a great club that is building for the future.

“I’ve visited Ashton Gate before joining and seen the plans for the new stadium – it really appealed to me.

“I’m looking forward to linking up with my new team-mates and helping Bristol push for promotion.”