Jonny Faamatuainu's last of his 11 Samoa caps was against Italy in 2009

Samoa forward Jonny Faamatuainu is set to complete a one-year loan move from Bath to the Scarlets.

The switch is subject to the transfer of his work visa to the Scarlets, which the region expect to be rubber-stamped by authorities in the next fortnight.

The 26-year-old, who can play anywhere in the back- or second-row, has made 98 appearances for Bath since joining the club in 2006, scoring 15 tries.

"Jonny will offer us exciting options," said Scarlets head coach Nigel Davies.

"Not only as a flair player but because of his flexibility to be able to play across the back and second row.

"We've been talking to Bath for a while now - the move fits well with us as we've been looking to bring in new blood and certain types of player into our forwards.

"Jonny's obviously hungry for more game time and his move fits with Bath's squad make-up next season and the new signings they've made this summer.

"He's been down a few times to meet with us and see our set-up and was clearly impressed with the training facilities and the stadium at Parc y Scarlets and is looking forward to making an impact here amongst the team and with our supporters.

"We look forward to welcoming him into the squad and seeing what he's capable of doing for the Scarlets next season.

"This gives us more competition and energy in the group and that can only be a good thing."

The 11-cap Faamatuainu was likely to have his Bath chances further limited by the arrival of Lewis Moody at The Rec.

His arrival in Llanelli will provide a valuable option in the continued injury absence of Dafydd Jones.

The 6ft 5ins powerhouse will give Nigel Davies' team an added ball-carrying option with Australia number eight David Lyons and young duo Rob McCusker and Josh Turnbull.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version