THE Dragons signed Dmitri Arhip on a short-term deal after the former Ospreys and Cardiff tighthead answered a propping SOS.

The 35-year-old Moldovan has been without a club this season after his time at the Arms Park was brought to an end by an Achilles injury in February, 2023.

Arhip has been training with the Dragons in recent months to finish his rehabilitation and will now join for the United Rugby Championship run-in.

The Rodney Parade club will field Chris Coleman and Luke Yendle against the Bulls in Newport tomorrow evening, when Arhip will take part in pre-match preparations and be ready if there are any late fitness concerns.

Stalwart Lloyd Fairbrother is sidelined with a calf problem that could end his season if the Dragons decide it’s not worth rushing him back.

Wales international Leon Brown is out with an injury suffered in the Six Nations opener against Scotland, with the Dragons not disclosing what the problem is, and Nathan Evans is out of action because of concussion.

South Wales Argus: Dmitri Arhip on the charge against the Dragons for CardiffDmitri Arhip on the charge against the Dragons for Cardiff (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

That has led to Dai Flanagan bringing in Cardiff-based Arhip, who will potentially have the chance to push for a permanent contract.

The head coach said: “He has been with us for several months getting back to full fitness and he is now in fantastic shape and ready to make an impact for us.

“Dmitri has been one of the best scrummaging props in the URC over many years and is a superb role model and professional.

“His vast experience will be a huge boost for us during this spell where we are without several front rows.”

Arhip became a cult hero over five seasons with the Ospreys where he made 91 appearances before signing a bumper deal with Montpellier in 2018.

When that move collapsed, he headed for Cardiff and he made 70 outings for the Blue and Blacks.