FORMER Dragons academy tighthead Alex Jeffries has swapped the Ospreys for the Scarlets, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 24-year-old prop has headed for Llanelli along with scrum-half Dane Blacker, who made two appearances on loan for the Rodney Parade region in 2017 and scored a super solo try at Ulster, and lock Danny Drake.

Jeffries came through the Dragons ranks and made 70 outings for Newport in the Premiership but never featured in regional rugby.

The Wales Under-20s international, who went to Coleg Gwent, joined the Ospreys in 2016 and played 18 times.

He said: "I am really looking forward to the next chapter in my rugby career at the Scarlets. I'm excited to work alongside a talented group of players and coaches and the opportunity to make my own mark at the club.

"I am also looking forward to developing my game and with the right opportunities showing what I am capable of."

Blacker heads west from Cardiff Blues and will battle Wales international Gareth Davies, former Dragon Jonathan Evans and Kieran Hardy for the 9 jersey.

He said: "I am delighted to sign my first professional contract with the Scarlets. It's an honour to be a part of an exciting club and I am looking forward to the coming season."

Drake arrives from New Zealand provincial side North Harbour .

The 24-year-old has previously been in the development squad of Super Rugby side the Blues.

"Danny, Dane and Alex are talented young players who will be excellent additions to our squad," said general manager of rugby Jon Daniels.

"We have worked hard to ensure we have put together a group of players capable of competing for silverware and re-signing players of the calibre of Johnny McNicholl, Jon Davies, Ken Owens, Rob Evans and others have been crucial to that.

"We are happy with the strength of the squad we have put together, but are always open to adding further players if they are the quality and right fit that we are looking for to move the Scarlets forwards.

"We are looking forward to welcoming the boys back for pre-season next week."