Pumas sevens specialist Estelles signs for Saints

Argentinian sevens specialist Juan Pablo Estelles signed for English rugby giants Northampton Saints on Monday, the Premiership club announced.

The 28-year-old centre -- whose only cap in the XV form of the game came in 2008 -- arrives from having played for his country at the sevens tournament at the Rio Olympics where Argentina finished sixth.

Estelles, who joins from Atletico del Rosario, acknowledged he would have to battle hard to earn a spot in the first-choice team.

"I am delighted to have this fantastic chance to challenge myself and prove what I can do at the highest level in England," he said.

"I am aware of the great number of world class players that the club has at its disposal and I know that there will be plenty of competition to earn a starting jersey.

"But I believe in my abilities and I will be working hard to make the most of this experience, on and off the field."

Director of rugby Jim Mallinder, who guided Saints to the 2014 title, said Estelles would not be out of his depth in the Premiership.

"Juan Pablo was part of an impressive Argentina squad at the Olympics so we know that he has the fitness levels to go straight into the Premiership," said Mallinder.

"He?s a powerful and elusive runner with a good set of handling skills as well as strong defence, and we're looking forward to seeing what he can do here at Franklin?s Gardens."

Northampton, who finished fifth last season, begin their campaign by hosting Bath on September 3.