Ulster Rugby have signed Italian international lock Carlo Del Fava on a two year contract.
Del Fava will join Ulster from Bourgoin where he has played since the start of the 2005-06 season having previously played at Parma and Natal Sharks.
Del Fava who was born in South Africa to an Italian father made his debut for Italy in the final game of the 2004 Six Nations against Wales in Cardiff and, after taking part in Italy's 2004 summer tour, he played all five games in the 2005 Six Nations.
Ulster Coach Mark McCall said; "We are delighted to be signing Carlo, he is an experienced international player as well as a talented and physical lock. At only 25 years of age he is a dynamic prospect within the Ulster Squad and will provide some extra competition for selection within the second row"
When asked how Del Fava felt about signing for Ulster he said; "I am really really excited about signing for Ulster, this is a new challenge for me and I am keen to try and find a place on the team and play some good rugby" When asked what knew of Ulster" he said.
"The guys that I have met from Ulster all talk about the tradition of playing for Ulster and the high aspirations for the future which I hope I can be part of. I am very keen to learn from Mark and Allen"