THE Dragons have beefed up their pack for next season by signing Wales prop Aaron Jarvis on a two-year deal while Samoa lock Brandon Nansen is also on the brink of heading for Rodney Parade.

The tight five duo will arrive from France this summer, 18-times capped tighthead Jarvis from Clermont Auvergne and Nansen, who can also play in the back row, from Stade Francais.

Jarvis, 31, moved to the Top 14 from the Ospreys in 2016 and helped Clermont win the title in his first season.

He has the ability to play both sides of the scrum and will also back-up Brok Harris and Ryan Bevington at loosehead as well as battling with Wales international Leon Brown and Lloyd Fairbrother and Nicky Thomas for the 3 jersey.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time in France with Clermont,” said Jarvis, who won the last of his caps against New Zealand in 2016.

“I feel I am returning to Wales a better player and proud of what I’ve achieved during my time here.

“The time feels right to return for a fresh challenge and I’m excited about joining the Dragons next season given the squad Bernard (Jackman, head coach) is building and linking up again with Richard Hibbard and Ryan Bevington after our time together at the Ospreys.”

Jackman believes Jarvis is returning a better player thanks to his efforts in the power game of the Top 14.

“He has the pedigree, profile and talent we were looking for to boost our front row options, with a wealth of experience at regional, European and international level,” said the former Ireland hooker.

"I feel that his game, and in particular his scrummaging, is now even better than before having experienced the different forces and styles that the Top 14 exposes Tight heads too.

"Aaron is an honest, hardworking player and exactly the type of player we need on the pitch but also off it to act as a role model for the young talent that has emerged this season.

"With the likes of Elliot Dee, Richard Hibbard, Leon Brown, Ryan Bevington, Brok Harris and now Aaron Jarvis, our strength and power up front will give us a platform to compete against the best teams in the PRO14 and in Europe.”

Aucklander Nansen headed to Paris this season on a one-year deal from the Blues but has been hindered by injury.

The strong-running forward played for North Harbour in New Zealand and won his solitary cap for Samoa against Romania in Bucharest in November.

The Dragons have agreed a deal with Nansen – who will be used primarily as a lock – but are waiting on a visa.

The Dragons have so far signed Bevington, hooker Richard Hibbard, back row forward Ross Moriarty, lock/flanker Huw Taylor up front for next season while scrum-halves Rhodri Williams and Rhodri Davies, fly-half Josh Lewis and utility back Jordan Williams will boost the backs.

Jackman is also lining up a fly-half and a pair of backs to add depth to the three-quarters.