Exeter Chiefs sign Argentina lock Franco Molina for 2024/25 season

Exeter Chiefs have strengthened their squad for the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season by signing Argentine international lock Franco Molina.

The 27-year-old powerhouse from Argentina arrives in Devon for his first stint playing club rugby outside of South America, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

Molina previously played for the Cordoba-based side in Argentina and was also part of the well-known Jaguares squad.

He gained further experience during a spell in Chile with Selknam before being called up to the Argentina national team for the first time in 2022, following his successful run with Argentina U20s.

Molina made his international Test debut earlier this year against France in Mendoza and has since featured prominently for Los Pumas in the Rugby Championship, including their historic win over New Zealand in August.

His move to the Chiefs provides him with the opportunity to test his skills in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.

“I signed for Exeter Chiefs because I wanted to go to a club that is really competitive and that makes me continue to improve as a player. I think the Chiefs are the right place for that," he told the club's official website.

“The prospect of playing in the Premiership really excites me, it’s a very difficult tournament that demands the maximum week by week. I can’t wait for my debut.

“This is going to be my first experience in English rugby, so I just hope to enjoy it to the fullest and play as many minutes as possible.”