Cardiff Rugby have snapped up highly-rated centre Steffan Emanuel who will return to the club ahead of the 2024-25 season.

The centre, who has attended Millfield School for the past two years, was a standout performer for the club’s Under-18s last season but opted for a switch to Bath.

However, after completing his studies at the prestigious school, and in a significant signal of intent for the club, Emanuel will return home to Cardiff and will link up with the first team squad.

Cardiff Rugby head coach Matt Sherratt said: “We are delighted to bring Steff back to the Arms Park following his studies at Millfied.

“He is a player with a lot of potential, an all round game and a real aptitude to learn and develop into top professional. He really impressed with Wales Under-18s last season, continuing his development with Millfield and Bath Under-18s, who just won the Under-18s Premiership title.

“We are fortunate to have a really productive player pathway and it is crucial to the future of this club that we hold onto as much of that talent as possible, develop them into professionals and allow them to fulfil their full potential.

“We have displayed our willingness to give young players opportunities this season and they have repaid us with some brilliant performances and we are determined to continue investing in young, homegrown talent.

“With experience around them, these players can really flourish and it is great to take another step forward in this strategy by bringing the likes of Steffan, who have previously left our pathway, back to the club.”

Emanuel played a crucial role as Bath Under-18s clinched a stunning finals day victory over Northampton Saints at Kingsholm, scoring two second-half tries including the late match-winner.

Cardiff rugby Academy Manager Gruff Rees added: “It is brilliant news that Steff is heading back to the Arms Park. He is a fantastic talent that we have seen flourish in our RAG teams while he was outstanding for Wales Under-18’s last season and has clearly been a standout at sixth form in Millfield.

“Matt Sherratt has been heavily invested in this process and has a real vision to provide a senior environment that young, gifted Welsh players can be nurtured and get great opportunities to develop so we were determined to bring a player such as Steff back across the bridge.

“It was clear in discussions that Steff and his family looked at many factors and we are so pleased that they have committed to Cardiff Rugby. He will fit in brilliantly with his determined nature and a positive approach to improving and enjoying his rugby.”