MEN Sport's rugby transfer round-up on Friday, January 7.
Wasps enter race for Watson
As reported on Monday, Bath are experiencing somewhat of an exodus with numerous big names looking to be making their way out of the club after a disastrous start to the season, losing their first ten Premiership games.
One of these names is Anthony Watson, and the England winger is reportedly looking to expand his horizons following nine seasons in Somerset.
It was previously thought that his options might be limited with English clubs suffering from a reduction in the salary cap, however, it is rumoured that Wasps may be prepared to launch a bid for the 2019 World Cup finalist.
All-Black Malakai Fekiatoa looks to be leaving Coventry, opening the door for a new marquee signing with Watson fitting the bill perfectly, his brother Marcus previously having graced the turf at the Ricoh.
Watson hasn't played since October with an ACL injury ruling him out of the Six Nations and the rest of the season. Despite this, at only 27 time is on his side and he would likely be a key signing for any side.
Liam Williams in surprise Cardiff switch
Wales and British & Irish Lions international Liam Williams has been confirmed as a new signing for Cardiff, making the switch to the Welsh capital following two years back at Parc y Scarlets.
The 30-year-old returned to Wales in early 2020 following three years at Saracens, the full-back left in the wake of the salary cap scandal and joined Scarlets, with whom he had already won the 2017 Pro 14 title.
He joins Cardiff in the summer having only made four appearances in Llanelli due to a combination of injuries and international commitments but is still one of the biggest names in Welsh rugby.
Speaking to the official club website, Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “We are all really excited to have signed Liam and look forward to welcoming him to Cardiff next season.
“We knew we had an opening at full-back and Liam’s talent and consistency is abundant for all to see. He has been one of the best full-backs in the world for a number of years and brings real quality on both sides of the ball with his attacking ability, kicking game, positioning and bravery."
He replaces fellow Welsh international Hallam Amos in the squad and will hope to bring a winning mentality to Cardiff, having won the 2019 Heineken Champions Cup at Saracens and a Six Nations Grand Slam.
Williams says he is excited by the move: "I’m really excited to link up with Cardiff in the summer but remain very grateful to the Scarlets, who have given me so many opportunities in the game, and I’m fully committed to them for the rest of the season.
“I have lots of fond memories there but, at this stage of my career, I feel I need a change of scenery and environment to ensure I can stay at the top of my game."
Gabriel Ibitoye in return to England
If you where asked where exciting young English winger Gabriel Ibitoye might have been playing his rugby recently after leaving Harlequins, where might you say?
Maybe France? Yes, he did have a stint with both Agen and Montpellier but failed to make an impact in the Top 14 before making a move to Tel Aviv Heat in Israel.
The former England Under 20 enjoyed his time in Tel Aviv, scoring four tries in six appearances in the Rugby Europe Super Cup.
It has been reported that the 23-year-old will be returning to England with Bristol Bears ahead of the 2022/23 Premiership campaign and English fans will be looking forward to seeing how an exciting talent has developed in his time away.
