ULSTER RUGBY HAVE announced the signings of Eduardo Bello, Keynan Knox, and Chay Mullins.
Argentina international prop Bello joins on a one-year deal after a stint with Newcastle Red Bulls.
The 30-year-old is a vastly experienced front-rower, with 26 caps for his country and having previous club experience with Zebre Parma and Saracens.
“I am very happy to be signing for one of the most exciting sides in European rugby and feel very grateful for the opportunity,” said Bello.
“It is a very talented young team, and I enjoyed watching their performances last season across the URC and the Challenge Cup.
“From a personal point of view, I’m very motivated to show what I can bring to this team and I’m very excited to experience a new adventure for me and my family.”
Irish-qualified prop Knox has signed a two-year deal after spending last season with USON Nevers in the French Pro D2.
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The 27-year-old South African prop qualifies through residency, after starting his professional rugby career with Munster.
Welcome Keynan✍️
We’re delighted to confirm that Irish-qualified prop Keynan Knox has signed a two-year deal with Ulster, joining this summer 🙌
Born in Bristol, Mullins qualifies for Ireland through his grandmother from County Cavan.
He previously represented the Ireland U20s, and marked his Connacht senior debut with a hat-trick of tries against Zebre Parma in December 2024.
“This is a really exciting move for me, and I was delighted to have this opportunity,” said Mullins.
“I know the coaching staff very well from my time at the Irish 20s under Richie (Murphy, head coach) and having worked with Mark Sexton at Connacht.
“I also know Zac (Ward) very well after being around the world with him with the Sevens, so I’m looking forward to being reunited with him as a teammate!
“Having watched Ulster last season, it was clear to see the freedom they are playing (with) in attack and I feel that suits my game. Hopefully I can add to the team and progress as a player.”
Ulster Rugby’s General Manager, Rory Best added: “We are very pleased to be bringing in a player of Chay’s talent in this summer. With his promise shown in the Sevens programme and at Connacht, he represents a fantastic market opportunity for us.
“We believe his attributes will fit in well with our brand of rugby and the coaches are well aware of his ability having worked with him before.
“His versatility will be a welcome addition into our backline, and he will add strong competition for selection.”
- Updated with Eduardo Bello and Keynan Knox signings at 8.14pm.
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Ulster announce signings of Eduardo Bello, Keynan Knox, and Chay Mullins
LAST UPDATE | 1 hr ago
ULSTER RUGBY HAVE announced the signings of Eduardo Bello, Keynan Knox, and Chay Mullins.
Argentina international prop Bello joins on a one-year deal after a stint with Newcastle Red Bulls.
The 30-year-old is a vastly experienced front-rower, with 26 caps for his country and having previous club experience with Zebre Parma and Saracens.
“I am very happy to be signing for one of the most exciting sides in European rugby and feel very grateful for the opportunity,” said Bello.
“It is a very talented young team, and I enjoyed watching their performances last season across the URC and the Challenge Cup.
“From a personal point of view, I’m very motivated to show what I can bring to this team and I’m very excited to experience a new adventure for me and my family.”
Irish-qualified prop Knox has signed a two-year deal after spending last season with USON Nevers in the French Pro D2.
The 27-year-old South African prop qualifies through residency, after starting his professional rugby career with Munster.
“Since leaving Ireland, I have gained more playing experience in France and feel I am coming back a more well-rounded player,” said Knox.
“I am looking forward to joining a very talented team and developing myself by working alongside international players.”
Mullins, 24, joins on a one-year deal after leaving Connacht at the end of the season.
A versatile back three player, Mullins previously starred for the now-defunct Ireland Sevens team.
He was part of the squad at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, and won a historic bronze medal at the Sevens World Cup in 2022.
Born in Bristol, Mullins qualifies for Ireland through his grandmother from County Cavan.
He previously represented the Ireland U20s, and marked his Connacht senior debut with a hat-trick of tries against Zebre Parma in December 2024.
“This is a really exciting move for me, and I was delighted to have this opportunity,” said Mullins.
“I know the coaching staff very well from my time at the Irish 20s under Richie (Murphy, head coach) and having worked with Mark Sexton at Connacht.
“I also know Zac (Ward) very well after being around the world with him with the Sevens, so I’m looking forward to being reunited with him as a teammate!
Ulster Rugby’s General Manager, Rory Best added: “We are very pleased to be bringing in a player of Chay’s talent in this summer. With his promise shown in the Sevens programme and at Connacht, he represents a fantastic market opportunity for us.
“We believe his attributes will fit in well with our brand of rugby and the coaches are well aware of his ability having worked with him before.
“His versatility will be a welcome addition into our backline, and he will add strong competition for selection.”
- Updated with Eduardo Bello and Keynan Knox signings at 8.14pm.
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