South American quintet who could sparkle in Europe

BRISTOL made headlines this week with the signing of Argentina U20 full-back Benjamin Elizalde, below, ahead of the new season. Elizalde arrives in the West Country highly rated after his exploits in the U20 World Cup and his performances for his former club, Pampas, in Super Rugby Americas.

Joe Santamaria picks out five more South American players who could make the leap to Europe in the coming months.

Tomás Bartolini Elizalde's fellow Argentine pipped him to the league title in June and won many plaudits for his performances last season. Still only 21, the hooker's work in the loose was vital to his team's success and he finished the year among the league's top try scorers. His performances were impressive enough to draw the attention of Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi who called Bartolini into his squad for the summer matches. It likely won't be long until Bartolini wins his first cap and a move to Europe could follow.

Baltazar Amaya After winning many admirers for Uruguay at the World Cup last year, Amaya has focused his attention on 7s in recent months and recently featured for his country at the Paris Olympics. A beautifully balanced runner who can step off both feet, Amaya is also adept under the high ball. At 25, he is coming into his prime and the full-back would be a brilliant addition to virtually any attacking side in Europe.

Franco Molina It has been a whirlwind few months for the combative second row, who made his Argentina debut in July, just weeks after leading Dogos to the Super Rugby Americas title. Molina, 26, is a powerful ball carrier but it is his defensive work that has impressed fans and coaches alike in recent times. He could follow in the footsteps of the many abrasive Argentines that have made the journey to Europe over the past 15 years.

Tomás Salas The 25-yearold Chilean fly-half had a short spell in France with Toulouse a few years ago but has made huge strides since returning to South America. His club side, Selknam, were a far more dangerous outfit when he was in the side and he showed great composure for the national team in July, when he stepped up to replace injured talisman Rodrigo Fernandez. With his combination of attacking flair and tactical nous, Salas would be a huge asset were he to return to Europe.

Santiago Pernas Elizalde's back three partner at Pampas, 20-year old Pernas was the breakout star of Super Rugby Americas last season and terrorised opposition defences at will. His work rate off the ball ensured he popped up all over the pitch and, when he wasn't finishing off moves, he was allowing others to do so. He will have attracted many admirers in Europe over recent months and it surely won't be long until the offers arrive.