Edinburgh Rugby snap up 20 y/o Scotland-qualified starlet whose father previously played for club

Edinburgh have agreed a deal to sign Scotland-qualified wing Malelili Satala on a two-year contract from Leicester.

The 20-year-old has made five appearances for the Tigers this season after coming through the academy. Satala was born in the Scottish capital and is the son of former Fiji international Apolosi Satala, who played for Edinburgh in the early 2000s.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Edinburgh this summer,” he told the club’s official website. “It’s an exciting new chapter and I’m really looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead, both on and off the field.

Malelili Satala has agreed to join Edinburgh Rugby from Leicester Tigers. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

“Making the move from Leicester to a city like Edinburgh is a big change, but one I’m embracing. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of such a proud club and can’t wait to meet new people, immerse myself in the culture and get to work.

“I’ve truly valued my time at Leicester Tigers. Coming through the academy and progressing into the first-team training squad has been an incredible journey that’s helped shape me both on and off the field.

“Being in an environment with such a high standard and surrounded by experienced players in the back three has pushed me to grow and constantly refine my game. I’m grateful for everything the club has given me and the lessons I’ll carry forward into this next chapter.”

Scotland Under-20 wing Finlay Doyle will join Edinburgh’s pro-academy from Loughborough University on a one-year deal.

Edinburgh have also retained nine young players on new contracts including back-row Tom Currie and scrum-half Conor McAlpine, who have stepped up to the senior squad after signing two-year deals. Loosehead prop Mikey Jones has also penned a one-year extension while full-back Jack Brown and lock Euan McVie have signed two-year contracts.

Hooker Jerry Blyth-Lafferty, back-row Oliver Duncan, scrum-half Hector Patterson and winger Lewis Wells have all signed new deals to remain with the Edinburgh pro-academy.