Jones a Scarlet?
Transfer News
By Andrew Collins
January 7 2006
Clemaunt half back Steven Jones may've just completed his move back to Wales with the Llanelli Scarlets. The former Llanelli man, who now plays with French side Clemaunt, left Strady 2 years ago but now looks set to return back at the end of the season.
Scarlets fans at tonights game against Leinster believe they've signed Welsh fly half, Steven Jones.
The move looks 99% to go ahead, despite ongoing negotiations with Cardiff Blues and London Wasps.
It's beleived he will sign a £250,000-a-year contract with Gareth Jenkins team, but is this a good of bad thing for the Blues?
Looking at the current squad, you have to say no. The Blues have 2 young hot prospects at outside half in Nicky Robinson and Nick Macleod, so an extra £250,000 on the wage bill would've realistically been a very expensive aquittion.
There's no dount that Steven would make a huge difference to Cardiff, and it's dissapointing not to be celebrating a great signinging, but at 29, is he really worth the money?
Of course his talent is undeniable, and he offers a reliable kicking option, but it comes at a price, he won't be available during 6 nations games and Autumn internationals, so that much money for a player who won't be playing probably isn't the best deal.
It's good to see the Blues showing interest in a player of that quality, and a shame we couldn't land him, but from a financial and realistic point of veiw, perhaps this is a blessing in disguise.
The Blues problems don't lie at fly half, the positions we really struggle at are at full back (assuming Rhys Williams can move to wing) and second row.
A big name signing like Stevie is always a boost to a clubs reputation, but realistically, wouldn't it be better to sign an international class second row who would win lineout ball and make a formidable partnership with Rob Sidoli.
Or a strong, quick, solid full back, with Rhys moving to his best position on the wing. Even a centre that would break the line, something Tristan Davies seems incapable of.
Yes, Steven would've been a great signing, but is it a big loss, i think not.
But what do i know? Post your opinions below!
In other news, other tranfer targets, Hal Luscombe and Matthew J. Watkins both look likely to extend current deals with their respected employers.
The centres, targeted by Dai YOung both have contracts expiring in the summer, and the Blues boss is keen to bolster his backs before next seasons campaign.