Dragons trump rivals with a loan deal for Tompkins
THE Dragons have signed Wales international Nick Tompkins on a year-long loan from Saracens.
The move for the 25-year-old had been heavily trailed - with the centre having also held talks with the Scarlets and Cardiff Blues.
However, it became clear Tompkins would only be leaving Saracens - who were relegated to the Championship following salary cap breaches - on a temporary basis.
That allowed the Dragons to swoop in and take Tompkins on loan - with the region stating that the “move has been finalised with the full support of the WRU and Wales national coaching team”.
Dragons’ Director of Rugby, Dean Ryan, said: “We’re delighted to be able to welcome a player of Nick’s calibre to the region.
“He has enjoyed success in a Saracens shirt and he brings that winning mentality and attitude, as well as enjoying a fresh environment and competition in which to challenge himself.
“Nick’s experience will undoubtedly bring out the best in those around him in our squad and we know he will leave an indelible mark on his time at Rodney Parade.”
Tompkins burst onto the international scene earlier this year after being picked by Wayne Pivac in his maiden Six Nations campaign as Wales coach.
Making his debut off the bench against Italy in the tournament opener, that try-scoring cameo saw him start the remaining matches of the campaign.
Despite being just 25, Tompkins boasts four English Premiership titles and three European Champions Cup titles during his time with Saracens.
Speaking about the move, Tompkins said: “I am really looking forward to joining the Dragons.
“The region is clearly making great progress, under the guidance of Dean Ryan, and I am really excited about contributing to the cause.”
However, his long-term future still belongs with Saracens - with the London club revealing that Tompkins signed a long-term deal with the club back in December.
“I love this place, it’s my home. I wanted to sign my future here and make sure I can be here long-term,” Tompkins told the Saracens website.
“The friendships and the bonds you make have been brilliant and also the working relationships I have with the coaches have been brilliant. They’ve made me the player I am.
“It’s going to be a fantastic year next year for the boys, I know they are going to be brilliant.
“I will be there for every single one of them.”
Sarries’ Director of Rugby Mark McCall said: “We are thrilled that Nick has confirmed his long-term commitment to stay at the club.
“As a youngster in our Academy it was clear that Nick was a player of real potential and we have enjoyed watching him grow and develop both on the field and as a young man.
“As a club we are delighted that Nick has chosen to continue to realise his potential with Saracens.”