Ireland fly-half Madigan to join Bristol

Ireland international Ian Madigan has agreed a three-year deal that will see him swap Bordeaux-Begles for Bristol from the 2017-18 season.

Madigan, who has made 30 Test appearances for his country, was a European Champions Cup winner with Leinster before moving to Bordeaux last year.

The 27-year-old follows Wasps centre Alapati Leiua and New Zealand back-rower Steven Luatua in agreeing to join the Premiership club from next season, when they will be coached by Pat Lam.

“The opportunity to come to England and prove myself here is one that I relish. Bristol Rugby has a clear vision for what they want to achieve and the club’s philosophy match my own ambitions,” Madigan told Bristol’s official website.

Welcome to #BristolRugby, @Ian_Madigan. We look forward to seeing you in the blue and white hoops. #MakingBristolProud pic.twitter.com/HvrD1GGAMh

— Bristol Rugby (@Bristol_RFC) March 6, 2017

“I know the expansive style of rugby that Pat and his coaching team want to play and that excites me. I was so impressed with the vision that was laid out to me, it made it an easy decision to commit to Bristol.

“The culture that the club are building, coupled with a city that loves its rugby, is something that really appeals to me.

“I’m looking forward to representing Bristol in front of the passionate supporters at Ashton Gate.”