Cardiff have targeted the signing of former Wales U20s tighthead Sam Scott from Bristol Bears for the 2027/28 season, WalesOnline has learnt. There have been attempts to get Scott back to Wales on loan this season but he still has a year left on his Bristol contract.
Primary target for Cardiff
Cardiff have made Scott one of their primary targets and will offer the powerful tighthead a two-year contract, while Wales head coach Steve Tandy has also met with the player.
Scott has long been viewed within the Welsh Rugby Union pathway as a potential long-term successor to the experienced Tomas Francis at tighthead for Wales. Back in 2024, former Wales head coach Warren Gatland seriously considered taking Scott on the summer tour of Australia, but ultimately decided he would be better served gaining experience with the U20s.
Impressive U20s credentials
Scott was among the most technically accomplished scrummagers on the U20s circuit, while his dynamism around the park saw him rack up an impressive volume of work in defence and at the breakdown. He is equally effective with ball in hand, offering a potent combination of power and athleticism as a carrier.
But he has found game-time very hard to come by at Bristol who have a number of experienced tightheads ahead of the young Welsh prop in the pecking order. Scott has played the majority of his club rugby in England's National One and a move to Cardiff would give Scott a better chance of getting game-time.
Wales' tighthead depth
Cardiff currently have Wales internationals Keiron Assiratti and Sam Wainwright on their books, along with former Scotland prop Javan Sebastian. There will likely be other teams interested in acquiring Scott's services but a move back to Cardiff is arguably best for his development.
Tighthead prop is not an area of strength in Wales and there is a big push from the WRU to fast-track the likes of Scott.
