Last season's leading Premiership try scorer Max Malins is heading back to Bristol Bears next season the club have officially confirmed.
England international back Malins, who can play at full-back, wing or fly-half, will join Bristol from Saracens in July 2023.
The 25-year-old, who has 14 caps for England, enjoyed a prolific loan spell at Ashton Gate between 2020 and 2021, scoring 18 tries in 19 matches and helping the Bears to a maiden European title with Challenge Cup glory and top spot in the Gallagher Premiership.
Whisper it quietly, but Bristol's attack looked more lethal during his loan spell at Bristol when Malins wore the 15 shirt than when the Bears' marquee former All Black Charles Piutau was on the pitch such was his impact at Ashton Gate.
Last season’s leading try scorer in the Gallagher Premiership with 16, full-back Malins signs a two-year deal at Bristol, with his move almost certainly signalling the departure of Piutau who have certainly lived up to his blockbuster billing but had to be nursed through seasons during to his troublesome Achilles.
Director of rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Max is already one of the top players in the Gallagher Premiership and he made a huge impact during his loan spell with us at the Bears. We are all looking forward to welcoming him back into our team again.
Malins added: “I’m delighted to have signed with the Bears. During my loan period, I was made to feel very welcome by the fans, thoroughly enjoyed my rugby and made some good friends. I look forward to returning and hope to carry on where I left off.”
