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Welsh international Rhys Patchell is to leave Cardiff Blues at the end of this season to join the Scarlets.

The out-of-contract utility back has been linked with a move west for a number of months and now the switch is set to go ahead.

He had been offered a new deal by the Blues, who were keen to retain the twice-capped local lad, but it's understood he has informed them he is going elsewhere.

The 22-year-old Cardiffian wants to play at No 10, but the Arms Park outfit are unable to guarantee him a regular spot there with Gareth Anscombe also on their books.

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Patchell played at full-back on a number of occasions last season after Anscombe came on board from New Zealand.

He has been at 10 so far this season with Anscombe first away with Wales at the World Cup and now injured.

But his long-term desire to play in the pivotal position will see him head to the Scarlets next season.

Steve Shingler has occupied that fly-half berth for the west Wales region this term, having taken over from the Bath-bound Rhys Priestland.

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He has helped them to the top of the Guinness Pro12, with the Scarlets winning their first six league matches.

With Patchell heading west, the versatile Shingler could now potentially become a target for the Blues.