Leeds bag experienced prop Moreno

Moreno made 45 appearances for Leicester Tigers

Leeds Carnegie have bolstered their squad with the capture of former Leicester prop Alex Moreno on loan from Rugby Calvisano.

The 36-year-old arrives at Headingley as cover for Fosi Pala'amo and Mike MacDonald who could miss the start of the season with visa complications.

Carnegie director of rugby Andy Key explained Moreno's arrival is only on a temporary basis.

"He'll make sure we have cover for the start of the season," he said.

Moreno moves to Leeds with a wealth of experience behind him, having made 45 appearances for Leicester Tigers across three seasons, as well as spells at San Fernando in Buenos Aires, Worcester Warriors, Brive and Perpignan, where he reached the French Championship final in 2004.

I have been impressed with the set-up at Leeds since I arrived. The players look focused and professional in training and are looking forward to the new season

Leeds Carnegie loanee Alex Moreno

He also has international honours, winning six caps for Argentina, before going on to represent Italy in the 1999 World Cup and 2002 Six Nations.

And Moreno is delighted with the move that will see him play Premiership rugby once again.

"I'm really happy to be joining up with Leeds," he said.

"Of course I know Andy (Key) and (head coach) Neil (Back) from my Leicester days and I am pleased to be able to come in and help them and the team on their return to the Guinness Premiership.

Juan's arrival shows the visa system is now working

Leeds director of rugby Andy Key on Juan Gomez

"I have been impressed with the set-up at Leeds since I arrived. The players look focused and professional in training and are looking forward to the new season."

The complications involving Pala'amo and MacDonald have dealt the club a blow with the new season less than a week away, but there is some good news which could pave the way for a resolution.

"We've been able to welcome back Juan Gomez this week," Key said.

"There have been some unforeseen complications with some of the visa applications, but Juan's arrival shows the system is now working and we are looking forward to seeing the other lads join up with us soon."