WALES tighthead Leon Brown has signed a new three-year deal with the Dragons after turning down interest from England and France, including European champions Exeter.

The 24-year-old from Newport has agreed fresh terms to stay at Rodney Parade and continue his 15-cap international career.

Brown, who is currently hunting a Six Nations Grand Slam, is a prop with huge potential and that put him on the radar of clubs in the English Premiership and France’s Top 14.

The Chiefs were looking at Brown as a contender to fill the void left by Tomas Francis, who is moving to the Ospreys next season to continue his Test career, and he was also chased by Gloucester.

However, the Dragons have managed to convince him to stay in Newport, aided by his return to the Wales fold.

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Brown said: “I am pleased to be re-signing and staying at Dragons for another three years.

“It’s a place where I enjoy playing, which is a big part in my decision, I am excited to see where we can now take the region.”

Brown has featured in 10 of Wayne Pivac’s 14 games at the helm and will battle Francis, Dillon Lewis, Samson Lee and WillGriff John for the 3 jersey.

The tighthead has always impressed with his athleticism around the field but has made huge improvements at the set piece over the past two seasons after missing out on the World Cup.

Brown followed fellow Six Nations squad members Elliot Dee and Aaron Wainwright in agreeing fresh terms.

“It’s great to see our Wales internationals all commit to their home region,” said director of rugby Dean Ryan.

“Leon is a big talent who has a huge desire to get push himself to get better and bring success to the Dragons.”

Wales internationals Ollie Griffiths and Sam Davies have also signed new contracts while lock Will Rowlands is joining from Wasps next season.