Italian job the latest mission for on-the-move Nagle

Zebre have snapped up Ian Nagle, the second row released by Leinster following a loan spell this season at Ulster. 

It means the 30-old-year will now link up with fellow Corkman Michael Bradley, who has been coaching the Italian franchise since 2017. 

The former Ireland under-age international made his debut with Munster in 2010 and he spent four and a half years at the club before switching to England where he played for Newcastle and London Irish as well as taking some time out of the game to finish off his third level education at Cambridge University.

Nagle stepped back into the sport in 2016 when Leo Cullen was on the lookout for some lock reinforcements. He managed 11 appearances in his first season, seven in his second and after managing just a single outing early on in his third, Ulster offered him the opportunity to link up with them on a short-term basis. 

However, following 11 appearances for the Belfast club, Nagle’s future is now away from Ireland once again with Zebre offering him the opportunity to help them up the PRO14 table. 

"I am very happy to have accepted the proposal of the Zebre and I look forward to working together with my new coaches and companions,” said Nagle. 

“It is a very important moment for the future of Italian rugby: Zebre have a very ambitious plan. Being part of it will be special. 

“I have always been positively impressed by the great passion of Italian rugby players and fans. The purposeful and attack-oriented game set by the technical staff is certainly very stimulating for every player.”

Zebre team manager Andrea de Rossi added: "Ian will be available to the technical staff starting next June 17 and we are sure he will bring his experience and professionalism to the service of the young team-mates. 

“It adds centimetres to a second row that is already very competitive and it allows us to rotate some players even in the back line. 

“Nagle is a most experienced foreign player who will also guarantee leadership in our pack. The positive opinion of coach Bradley was fundamental in his recruitment.”

WATCH: RugbyPass goes behind the scenes at Michael Bradley's Zebre prior to the 2018/19 season