Cardiff Blues sign Argentina back Joaquin Tuculet

Joaquin Tuculet made his international debut for Argentina in 2012

Cardiff Blues have signed Argentina international utility back Joaquin Tuculet.

Tuculet can play centre, wing or full back and has signed for the Welsh region until the end of the season.

The 25-year-old, who has had spells at Sale Sharks, Grenoble and Bordeaux Begles, joins compatriot Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino at the Arms Park.

Cardiff Blues director of rugby Mark Hammett said: "His versatility gives us real options in the back line."

"Joaquin is a quality international player... strong under the high ball, has a strong left footed kicking game and is also very good at offloading in the tackle.

"With the recent injury to Rhys Patchell [hamstring against Munster] his signing also comes at the right time for us."

Tuculet, who has played 19 times for the Pumas, scoring six tries, will link up with the Blues at the end of Argentina's autumn internationals campaign.

He says Amorosino played a role in helping him decide to join the Welsh side.

"My international team-mate and friend Lucas [Amorosino]... told me all about the passion of the supporters and the quality of the staff and the players," said Tuculet.

"So I did not hesitate when making the decision to join the region.

"I know I will be working with a very talented and ambitious group and so I am determined to have a strong season, and I hope to show the Cardiff Blues supporters my best rugby."