Wales back-row Ross Moriarty could be set for UK return

Welsh international Ross Moriarty is set to leave Brive after three years with the Pro D2 side, and his next destination could see him return in the United Kingdom.

Both Welsh URC outfit Dragons and Gallagher Premiership side Gloucester – both former clubs of the back-row – are reportedly keen to sign the No.8.

Moriarty joined CA Brive in 2022 and quickly became one of the team’s standout performers, scoring five tries and earning multiple Pro D2 Player of the Match awards. Unfortunately, the 55-cap Welshman has been out of action since last October due to a serious injury. He underwent surgery and is expected to return in March.

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CA Brive is allowing some of its top players to leave as the club cuts costs and restructures ahead of next season, uncertain whether it will remain in the Top 14 or drop to the Pro D2.

Moriarty began his professional career at Gloucester, making his Premiership debut in 2013. He stayed with the Cherry-and-Whites until 2018, when he moved to the Welsh Dragons. Although he was capped for England’s U20 side, Moriarty opted to represent Wales at senior level and made his debut in 2015 against Ireland. Since then, he has featured in two World Cups and scored three tries.

His most recent Test appearance came on 19 March 2022, in Wales’ shock home defeat to Italy. He headed to France a few months later.

Racing 92 had been linked with the Welsh No.8, but the Parisian club is now close to confirming the signing of Fijian international Lekima Tagitagivalu, which will likely affect Moriarty’s transfer prospects in regards to the French capital side.

A move to another French club might still be on the cards, but the new agreement between the WRU and the four Welsh regions could influence the 30-year-old loose forward’s decision.