Samoan international prop Nephi Leatigaga has agreed to join Leicester Tigers this summer.

The 25-year-old Leatigaga, who weighs in at more than 23 stones, has played on both sides of the front row in European rugby with Piacenza in Italy and lately with Biarritz in France.

He made his first Test appearance for Samoa in 2016 and has five senior caps.

Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy, confirming the signing, said: “Nephi has been gaining experience in European rugby in France and has also been around the national squad with Samoa and we think he has a lot to offer.

“He is obviously a big man so he has a physical presence about him and we think he can get better and better working with the players and coaches we have here.”

Leatigaga said: “I am excited to be joining a club like Leicester Tigers and for the chance to play alongside some of the best players in rugby.”

“Tigers has a big history of producing some of the game’s best front rowers and have a big focus on that part of the game, which I am looking forward to being a part of.

“I want to help the club get back to the top of the Premiership and believe in what Geordan Murphy is building with the squad.”