Scarlets statement: The signing of Ioan Lloyd from Bristol

Much improved Scarlets have secured an eye-catching recruit for next season, Wales international Ioan Lloyd who has come through the ranks at Bristol in the Gallagher Premiership. The recently turned 22-year-old was first capped in November 2020 in Llanelli and he will now hope that his switch to the URC will enhance his Test level prospects under Waren Gatland.

A statement read: “Scarlets are delighted to announce the signing of Bristol Bears’ Wales international Ioan Lloyd. The 22-year-old fly-half will be returning to Welsh rugby after spending the last four years at Bristol. A former pupil of Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf in Cardiff, Lloyd was part of the Cardiff Blues pathway before moving to Clifton College where he linked up with the Bears.

“He became Bristol’s youngest-ever player in the English Premiership when, at the age of 18, he made a try-scoring appearance as a replacement in the West Country derby against Bath.

“Lloyd was capped at U18s and U20s level and graduated to Wales senior honours in 2020, making two appearances off the bench during the Autumn Nations campaign that was played at Parc y Scarlets. He has made 78 competitive appearances for Bristol.

“Lloyd’s signing comes on the back of Wales international hooker Ryan Elias committing himself to the Scarlets with a new deal. Further contract announcements will be made this week.”

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “Ioan is a high-quality player with a huge amount of talent, a ball player with the ability to break the line and take on defences. He is a player who we feel will fit well with the way we look to play here and we're looking forward to welcoming him in the summer. He is a young man and we're looking forward to seeing him grow in a Scarlets shirt.”

Lloyd added: "It has been a very hard decision to leave Bristol. I have had a fantastic four years at the club and I leave having made many good friends. However, having sat down a few times with Dwayne, I feel a move to the Scarlets is a good rugby one for me and will help me further develop as a player.

“I feel the Scarlets’ game plan will suit my style of play and I’m excited to get stuck in next season. But for now, my focus is on working hard to help Bristol finish the season strongly.”

Bristol later confirmed the departure of a second international player, revealing that Sam Jeffries is also leaving the club at the end of this season. The 30-year-old, who was called up to join the England squad in Australia last summer when Bath lock Charlie Ewels suffered an injury, is taking up an opportunity overseas.

Bristol boss Pat Lam said: “Sam was all set to sign an extension to remain at the Bears when at the last minute, he received a life-changing opportunity from overseas. Unfortunately, with the nature of the salary cap reduction in the Premiership, it was one we were unable to compete with.

“Sam’s comeback from a career-threatening injury to being called up to an England squad has been inspirational and is a testament to his hard work, dedication and professionalism.”