Scarlets look to Popham, Parks

The Welsh regions - the Blues, the Dragons, the Ospreys and the Scarlets - have signed a legally binding agreement not to sign more than two players each who are not qualified to play for Wales. The Scarlets are looking at Welshmen beyond the borders of Wales.

The two players clearly targeted are No.8 Alix Popham and flank Richard Parks, both playing in England for Leeds Tykes.

With the retirement of Scarlets icon Scott Quinnell at the end of this season, Popham, who has played for Wales, is seen as an ideal replacement. The Scarlets are interested in Parks as both captain Simon Easterby and Dafydd James are out of contract and could leave the Scarlets. Easterby has already said that he wants to stay at Stradey.

Parks, who moved to Leeds when the Warriors fell apart, could well come back to Wales. Popham still has a year of his contract to run but may well be released to return to Wales.

Scarlets will have 17 players out of contract at the end of the season.