The Crusaders have poached another promising young player from Australia, signing former Waratahs prop Michael Alaalatoa on a one-year deal.

The 24-year old spent two season with the Waratahs before signing with ITM Cup side Manawatu for the 2015 season, where he caught the attention of Crusaders forwards coach Dave Hewett.

“We’ve been keeping a close eye on the options at tighthead prop since Nepo Laulala’s decision to shift to the Chiefs, and Michael has been one who has really stood out,” Hewett said.

“He’s put in some impressive performances for the Turbos and, importantly, has really grown across the season. It’s obvious that he is working hard on his game and is ambitious and determined to succeed. That’s what really attracted us to him, he already has an impressive physical demeanour but he also has a great attitude.”

With incumbent prop Tim Perry set to miss the first part of the 2016 Super Rugby season after injuring his ACL, the opportunity is there for Alaalatoa to fight for a spot.

“We’ve talked to Michael already about the opportunity that is there for him and the fact that the opportunities are not just on the playing field – it’s about how he trains and prepares every week. He has embraced that challenge and we know that he is committed to continuing to grow his game to step up to the next level,” Hewett said.

Alaalatoa comes from a strong rugby family. His father represented Samoa at the 1991 World Cup and his brother Alan is contracted at the Brumbies.

H said he was thrilled to receive the call up from the Crusaders and excited about making the move to Christchurch to join the team.

“I have moved to New Zealand this year in the hope of improving my game and gaining a Super Rugby contract, so to have achieved that with the Crusaders is a dream come true,” Alaalatoa said.

“The Crusaders have produced some of the best props in the world in recent years, so I know that I am going to the right place to learn and improve. I can’t wait to join the team and start preparing for the season ahead.”