Welsh club sign Tongan international on short-term deal

The Dragons have signed Tonga international prop Paula Latu on a short-term deal.

The 28-year-old joins from New Zealand side Southland Stags.

Latu has won five caps to date for Tonga, after making his debut against Canada last year ahead of the World Cup.

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He featured in their win over Romania in France last year off the bench, while he also made three replacement appearances in the autumn internationals.

His older brother Penikolo is also a Tongan international, with the winger having also played at last year's World Cup.

“He has come in as cover and arrived on Monday afternoon. He has joined the team and is going to be good here," said interim head coach Filo Tiatia.

“Paula is a good young man and we have been proactive to find the right person to come in – he is a ball-carrying tighthead and is an athlete.

“He is still learning his craft but (forwards coach) Sam Hobbs has looked at him closely and likes what he sees, with an opportunity to help him keep growing.”

“He is registered and is currently going through the selection process after just arriving,” added Tiatia.

“In terms of selection, we will assess him and decide on him. He has travelled over 24 hours to get here so we want to be smart with working with him.”