Baxter signs Argentinian international

Exeter Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter says he is "excited" what Santiago Cordero can bring after he today agreed a contract with the Devon club until the end of the season.

With Baxter's options in the back division somewhat restricted currently due to injuries and Six Nations call-ups, the Chiefs boss has identified the Argentinian international as a man who can not only enhance his squad, but who can also offer proven quality and experience entering into the business end of the season.

The 24-year-old, who can play either wing or full-back, arrives at Sandy Park with 33 caps and 11 international tries to his name - and a proven pedigree of playing top-level rugby having featured most recently in Super Rugby for the Jaguares.

In welcoming Cordero to the Chiefs, Baxter said: "It won't come as a surprise to many that we've been looking for additions to the backline. We've been a bit bumped and bruised at times this season and with the likes of Jack Nowell (ankle), James Short (finger), Henry Slade (shoulder), Max Bodilly (shoulder) and Michele Campagnaro (knee) all out, we were starting to look a bit thin in that area.

"At the same time, you want to have a competitive squad, competition for places, and different options to choose from. Therefore, if good players become available, sometimes they can be the guys who can ignite a bit of sparkle into a side.

"Santiago was available, he's ready to go, ready to play, so there were lots of things that added up for us. There was also real value in getting here as soon as possible, so now he's here, he's fully registered, he's available for this weekend, we're looking forward to seeing what he can bring."

Cordero will become the fourth Argentine player to pull on a Chiefs jersey following in the footsteps of Igancio Elosu, Ignacio Mieres and Gonzalo Camacho, the latter of whom Exeter's new-boy has spoken to in detail about the club.

"Santiago is a little bit like Gonzalo, but what we see is a player who offers a real attacking threat," added Baxter. "As I said, we feel he can really add a spark and what we will try and do is get him on the ball as much as possible, because that is where he offers his greatest threat.

"Looking at his games, you can see he is a dangerous player and someone who can give us real momentum in attack. What we have to do as a club is create a platform for him to show his best qualities."

Although signed until the end of the current season, Baxter has not ruled out potentially extending Cordero's stay if the move proves a success for all parties.