Ulster Rugby: Eduardo Bello, Keynan Knox and Chay Mullins join province

Knox, who is Ireland-qualified through residency joins Ulster after a spell with French Pro D2 side USON Nevers.

The 27-year-old South African has also played for CS Bourgoin-Jallieu and Munster.

He racked up 33 appearances during his six-year stint with Munster, featuring eight times in the United Rugby Championship winning season in 2023.

“I am delighted to be joining Ulster Rugby this summer, and I can’t wait to meet the staff and my new teammates in pre-season,” said Knox.

“Since leaving Ireland, I have gained more playing experience in France and feel I am coming back a more well-rounded player.

“I am looking forward to joining a very talented team and developing myself by working alongside international players.

Mullins, a versatile back three player who qualifies for Ireland through his Cavan-born grandmother, arrives after coming through at Connacht.

The 24-year-old was part of the Ireland sevens team that won the Rugby Europe Sevens Championship Series in 2023 and also featured in the side that went to the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

He scored a hat-trick of tries on his Connacht debut against Zebre in December 2024 and previously worked with Ulster head coach Richie Murphy in the Ireland Under-20s.

“This is a really exciting move for me, and I was delighted to have this opportunity. I know the coaching staff very well from my time at the Irish 20s under Richie and having worked with Mark Sexton at Connacht,” Mullins explained

“I also know Zac [Ward] very well after being around the world with him with the sevens, so I’m looking forward to being reunited with him as a teammate.

“Having watched Ulster last season, it was clear to see the freedom they are playing in attack and I feel that suits my game. Hopefully I can add to the team and progress as a player.”