Powell is enjoying a breakthrough season for the Blues and Wales

Wales number eight Andy Powell has signed a new deal at Cardiff Blues, along with lock Bradley Davies, prop Gary Powell and scrum-half Richie Rees.

Brecon-born Powell, 27, was the find of Wales' autumn campaign and is a hot tip for the Lions tour of South Africa.

His new deal will keep him with the region until 2012.

"Andy has been in outstanding form for us this season, he is a quality player with a real presence on the rugby pitch," said Blues coach Dai Young.

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Another of Wales' autumn stars, Leigh Halfpenny, is also in negotiations with the Blues over a new deal, media reports suggesting that the Scarlets are interested in securing his services.

Blues brothers Jamie and Nicky Robinson are out of contract in the summer, but are thought to be close to agreeing extensions.

"It's up in the air at the moment," centre Jamie told BBC Wales' Scrum V Radio programme.

"It's a huge decision for me. My heart is with the Blues but we are still in the early stages of talks."

Academy product Davies, 22, who is pushing for a place in Wales' Six Nations squad, has signed until 2012.

"Bradley has a big future with the Cardiff Blues, his physical presence on the pitch and his work rate around it cannot be underestimated," said Young.

Tight-head Gary Powell, 29, and 25-year-old Richie Rees - who joined from London Irish in the summer - have both signed up with the Blues until 2011.

Media reports have linked another scrum-half with a close-season move to Cardiff, Gloucester and Wales number nine Gareth Cooper.

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