Welsh-qualified fly-half quits English club and set to join region after Gareth Anscombe call

Welsh-qualified fly-half Lloyd Evans is reportedly set to sign for the Dragons after leaving Gloucester Rugby.

The 28-year-old, who can also play at full-back, had made almost 100 senior appearances for the Cherry and Whites having been born in the city and come through the club's academy. But 11 years on from his senior debut for the side, he has decided to leave Kingsholm and join Dai Flanagan's side in search of regular game-time.

Evans, who has represented England at U20s level, is set to move to Rodney Parade on an initial one-year deal, having negotiated an early release from his contract at Gloucester, the South Wales Argus reports. The same publication reports that a deal has been agreed with the playmaker for some time - with Flanagan teasing the signing last month - but has now been rubber-stamped by the WRU.

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It has also been reported that the Dragons were interested in signing Gareth Anscombe to boost their ranks at outside-half. But the Wales international's decision to move to Kingsholm caused a knock-on effect, with Evans - who qualifies for Wales through his father, former Scarlets chairman Huw - moving to the region instead.

He will now compete with Will Reed for the 10 jersey at Rodney Parade, with Angus O'Brien returning to full-back after covering the position last season. The Dragons also have Welsh U20s star Harri Ford in their ranks at outside half while Wales international Cai Evans is also available as cover.

Gloucester confirmed Evans' departure on Thursday, with a statement reading: "Gloucester Rugby can also confirm that Lloyd Evans has departed the club to take up a challenge with a United Rugby Championship side."

Meanwhile, the Cherry and Whites' director of rugby, George Skivington, praised the fly-half for his contributions after his departure was confirmed, saying: “Lloyd’s been around the club for a long time and I’ve always appreciated his commitment and willingness to turn out wherever necessary for the team.

“We’re well stacked at fly-half and full-back next season, with Santi Carreras, Gareth Anscombe, Charlie Atkinson and George Barton all able to cover both positions. So, naturally it makes a lot of sense for Lloyd to move on and play regular rugby."