Dragons RFC have made a bold statement by signing five new players, with an additional five more players set to join the Welsh team, as announced by chairman David Wright during a Q&A session with fans at Rodney Parade. The move comes as the Newport-based club looks to strengthen its squad following the retirement of key players like tighthead prop Lloyd Fairbrother and Wales international Taine Basham.
The club’s head coach, Filo Tiatia, and head of recruitment, Jonathan Westwood, are focused on bolstering the team’s positions in the upcoming season. With the departure of several players, including Leon Brown and Taine Basham, the Dragons have been proactive in securing new talent to reinforce their ranks. Among the potential signings is Blue and Blacks fly-half Tinus de Beer, who is poised to make a move to Newport, while rising star Ioan Lloyd is set to join Cardiff Rugby.
During the Q&A session, it was revealed that five players have already signed contracts with the club, with three of them being internationals, although their nationalities were not disclosed. Chairman Wright expressed the team’s commitment to further strengthening the squad by bringing in five more players in the coming weeks and months. This recruitment drive is part of the club’s strategy to enhance its competitiveness within the league.
The Dragons, currently operating with a budget of £4.5 million, are expected to increase their financial resources to around £5.1 million for the next season. In line with this expansion, the club has pledged to secure a marquee player with a significant salary of approximately £400,000. This investment signals the Dragons’ ambition to elevate their performance and challenge for top honours in the league.
Last season, the Dragons made notable acquisitions, with Shane Lewis-Hughes proving to be a standout addition to the team. As they look to build on their successes, the club is focused on recruiting players of similar calibre to strengthen their squad. The confirmation that Filo Tiatia will take on the role of permanent head coach further solidifies the team’s leadership structure for the upcoming season.
The impending signings and strategic developments within the Dragons set the stage for an exciting period of transformation and growth for the Welsh team. Fans can look forward to seeing a blend of experienced internationals and promising talents joining the ranks, as the club aims to elevate its standing within the league. With a clear commitment to strengthening the squad and investing in top-tier talent, the Dragons are poised for a promising future in Welsh rugby.
In conclusion, the Dragons’ recent signings and upcoming recruitment drive reflect the club’s ambitious vision for the future. By securing top talent and investing in experienced players, the Welsh team is positioning itself for success in the upcoming season. With a strengthened squad and a clear strategy in place, the Dragons are ready to make their mark in the competitive rugby landscape.