Leicester Tigers have signed Argentina international forward Tomas Lavanini ahead of the new season.

Lavanini, a 48-time capped international for the Pumas, joins from the Buenos Aires-based Jaguares side, having also lined up for Racing 92 in France, and Pampas XV - also of Argentina - earlier in his career. 

Famous for his aggressive - some might say violent - style of play and intimidating frame, Lavanini stands at a little over 6 foot 7 inches, and weighed in at almost 21 stone ahead of last season. 

No stranger to controversy as a result of his playing style, the 26-year-old lock has frequently found himself on the wrong end of rugby's laws, forging a reputation for himself as one of the most violent players on the planet in the process. 

Fans of YouTube will no doubt already be familiar with his no-nonsense, hard-hitting approach to the game, with countless compilations showing some of his hardest hits - and most controversial tackles - across his career.

Red-carded in the 2017 Rugby Championships against South Africa, after receiving two yellow cards for dangerous play, Lavanini made headlines after making his return against New Zealand in his following fixture, only to be carded once again for the same offence. 

Despite his notoriety within the game for what some fans might view as all the wrong reasons, Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy spoke highly of his new man, welcoming Lavanini when speaking to the assembled media at the press conference. 

"Tomas has played an important part in a big, physical and impressive Los Pumas pack, and he has a lot of experience for a player of his age. 

"He brings a lot of the attributes we've been looking for in that area and we think he can continue to develop with us. We're delighted that he has agreed to join the Tigers and we're sure the Welford Road supporters will give him a big welcome."

Lavanini echoed a lot of his new manager's comments when speaking on this next move in his colourful career, stating his excitement at playing under Murphy and with his new teammates. 

"It is an exciting challenge for me to make the move to the Premiership next season, and one that I am very much looking forwards to.

"To join a club like Leicester is a huge honour and I can't wait to become a Tigers player, working alongside the players in the squad and playing at Welford road. 

"The club is entering a new chapter under Geordan Murphy, and I'm keen to contribute and help build on the success of the past".