Wales fullback Liam Williams has left Japanese League One side Kubota Spears with immediate effect, with a move back to the UK on the cards.

Williams, 33, moved to Japan following the 2023 World Cup and played seven games for the Spears last season.

Williams, who has 91 caps for Wales, has previously played for Scarlets, Cardiff Rugby, and Saracens, with the latter being the most likely landing spot for him.

“The decision to leave hasn’t been an easy one, but my wife and I are thrilled to be welcoming our first child soon,” Williams told the Kubota website.

“I feel it’s important for me to be back home with my family during this special time, I would like to thank [Kubota head coach] Frans (Ludeke) and the coaches for being extremely understanding with regard to my family situation and allowing me to return to the UK.

“Your support, passion and dedication to the game have been truly inspiring, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been welcomed into such a special group.”

Williams has been linked with a return to Saracens, where he won a Premiership title and European Champions Cup during a productive previous spell from 2017 to 2019.

His return to the UK is also good news for Wales, with Williams now likely to be available for their 2025 Six Nations campaign.

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