Andrea Zambonin

Chiefs signed a real set piece threat when they secured the talented Italian international lock, Andrea Zambonin, ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The move to Devon will mark the first time the forward has played his club rugby outside of Italy having played for Zebre since his professional debut in September 2021, though he describes playing in the Premiership as a long-term dream of his.

There will be familiar faces amongst the Chiefs squad for Zambonin as he joins fellow Azzuri internationals Ross Vintcent and Stephen Varney in donning Chiefs colours next season.

Born in Vicenza, the 6ft 8in lock made his Italian debut against England in a Guinness Six Nations match in February 2022 and has earned 10 caps for his country to date.

Before being brought into the fold of the Italian national academy, Zambonin began his rugby journey with Serie A sides Rugby Calvisano and Rangers Vicenza Rugby. Strong performances for the two sides caught Zebre’s eye and he made the switch to the United Rugby Championship side in 2021.

Now, at just 24-years-old, Zambonin already has 60 appearances for Zebre with three tries scored as he begins to emerge as a potential talent for the future in the Italian second row.

Chiefs Director of Rugby spoke about the emerging talent who will add to the depth of international talent in the Chiefs second row alongside the likes of Dafydd Jenkins and Christ Tshiunza.