Celtic League Transfer News

By Lestyn (03/07/03)
July 3 2003

Gwent are after a South African, Neath-Swansea have secured two more Bath players. In Ireland they're spending big, with Munster and Ulster signing some big name southern hemisphere players.

Gwent are looking to pull off a major coup, by signing South African international Robbie Fleck. With the region short on a quality number thirteen, Mike Ruddock is being forced to look abroad, and Fleck appears to fit the bill.Fleck 28, who is currently preparing for the Tri Nations has not denied the reports. It has been suggested that fellow South African born (but Welshman) Andy Marinos could influence Fleck's decision.

The region need's a line breaker with a bit of pace, apart from under 21 Nathan Brew there's no one who can really offer that at the moment, hence Fleck would fit the bill. Possibly Ruddock is trying to make up for the lack of quality in his squad, by bringing in players of the caliber of Fleck and hoping that he bring's the best out of the rest.

Neath-Swansea have secured the signing of Flanker Gavin Thomas from Bath. Thomas who can slot in at Open side and Blind side will add to the regions already strong looking back row. His signing mean's that the Osprey's will probably use Jonathan Thomas as a lock. Another Bath player is set to move to West Glam organ, Swansea born scrum half Andy Williams is likely to sign for the region when it's announced.

Munster have pulled off a phenomenal signing by landing former All Black full back Christian Cullen on a three year deal. Shaun Payne who qualifies for Wales through residency has also agreed terms with Munster. Payne also qualifies for Ireland, through an Irish parent. Looking at Neath-Swansea's back line, they really should have tried to keep hold of Payne, with no out and out full back and a shortage of wingers .Another qualified Irish man Aussie David Pusey also joins the "Stag's" from the ACT Brumbies.

Ulster look certain to sign another Kiwi back on his way to Ireland in Paul Steinmetz, the centre has "verbally" agreed a two year contract with Ulster. Canterbury Crusaders forward Matt Mustchin also joins the province.