Scarlets ramp up search for a new playmaker

SAM Davies and Owen Williams have been identified by the Scarlets as potential new playmaker options for next season.

The Llanelli-based side have failed to find adequate cover for Rhys Patchell at flyhalf with Dan Jones and Angus O’Brien struggling to convince Scarlets and future Wales coach Wayne Pivac.

It means they are looking at new 10s for next season.

Ospreys pivot Davies is out of contract in the summer, but Williams still has two years left on his deal with Gloucester. TRP understands the Cherry & Whites would consider releasing Williams early.

Williams started Wales’ Tests with Australia and New Zealand last November, but he has since fallen out of favour both at Kingsholm and at international level.

The 26-year-old began his career at the Scarlets before joining Leicester. He scored 629 points in four seasons, but could yet return to his home region having rejected the Dragons last summer.

Ospreys star Davies – like Williams a full Wales international – is another player the Scarlets are considering, but it is understood they face competition from the Dragons. The 25-year-old former junior world player of the year is also attracting interest from English clubs.

Both Davies and Williams are currently out of favour with Wales head coach Warren Gatland and won’t feature in next month’s Autumn Tests.

Davies’ last cap came against Samoa in June 2017, while Williams last wore the red of his country last November. The two players may see transfers to new clubs as a way of reviving their Wales careers.