EXCLUSIVE: Bristol Rugby star George Watkins set to leave club and join ...

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BRISTOL’S revolution under Andy Robinson looks set to suffer a major setback, with star winger George Watkins ready to join Cardiff Blues.

The Bristol Post understands the 23-year-old, who came through the academy at Bristol, is close to completing a switch to the Welsh capital for next season.

Watkins has scored 51 tries in 87 appearances for Bristol – including 39 in the league, which puts him level with Sean Marsden as the club’s leading league try-scorer.

But despite Bristol’s recent investment in new players for next season – with Dwayne Peel and Anthony Perenise already signed up and others set to follow – Watkins is keen on a move to Wales.

One attraction is understood to be the possibility of playing international rugby on the other side of the Severn bridge – Watkins qualifies for Wales through his father.

Cardiff are expected to lose full-back Leigh Halfpenny to Toulon at the end of the season and are eager to bolster their back-three department.

Watkins – a natural and prolific finisher with great pace and balance – has been identified as an ideal signing by the Blues and his switch could be sealed before the end of the month.

Bristol, meanwhile, could add one player on a loan deal before the February 28 deadline for GKIPA Championship signings – but director of rugby Robinson said any further additions would be for next season.

“We may bring in a young player next week on loan – but that’s likely to be it for this season,” he said. “All other signings will be for next season.”

* Since our initial story was published, Bristol have confirmed Watkins will leave the club this summer – but not his destination. However, Cardiff Blues are expected to announce next week that they have signed the winger.

Bristol boss Robinson said: “It’s deeply disappointing to lose a young player, especially one that has come through the academy system.

“George was a key figure in the club’s future vision and we were keen for him to commit for the long-term.

“Unfortunately for Bristol, George has chosen to pursue his ambitions to play European and international rugby and we respect that decision.

“We’re continuing to build a squad that we believe can flourish at the highest level and – despite this news – our commitment to homegrown talent has not wavered.

“George has served us magnificently in the Championship and we thank him for his contribution.

“Until the time of his departure, he will be fully focused on Bristol Rugby and helping us achieve our goals of promotion to the Aviva Premiership.”

Article source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/23303430

EXCLUSIVE: Bristol Rugby star George Watkins set to leave club and join ...