Argentina tighthead Eduardo Bello leads Ulster's triple signing ahead of new URC season

Ulster have bolstered their squad ahead of the new United Rugby Championship season by signing Argentina international Eduardo Bello, Keynan Knox, and Chay Mullins, the province confirmed this week.

Bello, a 26-cap Pumas tighthead, arrives on a one-year deal from Newcastle Red Bulls. The 26-year-old brings considerable international pedigree, having featured in both the Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup, and was part of the Saracens side that won the Gallagher Premiership in 2023.

Ulster general manager Rory Best said the club was “delighted” to be adding someone of Bello’s “top-level international experience, quality and profile” to the squad. Best added that a key focus of the recruitment window had been introducing “more leadership and physicality” to the pack, describing Bello as “an exciting addition” with a “winning mentality”.

Bello himself said he was joining “one of the most exciting sides in European rugby” and expressed eagerness to experience Ulster’s renowned home support at Kingspan Stadium.

The province have also secured Irish-qualified tighthead Keynan Knox on a two-year contract. The South African-born former Munster prop returns to Irish rugby after spells with Bourgoin-Jallieu and Pro D2 side Nevers. Best praised Knox’s “excellent physical profile” and strength around the set-piece, while Knox said his time in France had made him “a more well-rounded player”.

Completing the trio is Connacht back-three player Chay Mullins, who represented Ireland Sevens at the Paris Olympics and scored a hat-trick on his senior Connacht debut against Zebre in 2024. The 24-year-old cited Ulster’s attacking style as a major draw, saying he hoped to “add to the team and progress as a player”. Best described Mullins as “a player of talent” and “a fantastic market opportunity”.

The three signings reflect Ulster head coach Richie Murphy’s clear intent to add depth and experience across the front row and back three as the province look to build on their recent URC campaigns.