Ospreys have announced that Adam Beard will the region at the end of the season, with French club Montpellier his rumoured destination.

Beard’s contract at the Welsh region expires this summer and is set to join the Top 14 side, although there is no official confirmation as yet.

Beard, who came through the Ospreys academy and has played 58 times for Wales, made his Ospreys debut as an 18-year-old in 2014 and leaves having played 139 for his hometown club.

An excellent lineout operator and underrated open field distributor, Beard also toured South Africa in 2021 as part of the British and Irish Lions squad.

Speaking about his move, Beard said: “I’ve loved my time at the Ospreys, which made this a really tough decision to make. I grew up being an Ospreys supporter and I was lucky enough to have come through the academy system and then progress to the first team. To represent the club on so many occasions, makes me extremely proud.

“I have had lots of conversations with my family, friends and the coaches here, and feel like this is the right time to adventure into a new challenge for myself and my family.

“This is a great club, and I have enjoyed every second of playing here, from the training pitch to a game day. I have made friends and memories that will last a lifetime. This a special place that has played a hugely important role in where I am as a player, and person, today.

“I would like to thank all the players, coaches, staff and fans here at the Ospreys from over the years, for all the great times that will live with me forever.’

Head Coach, Mark Jones, said: “Beardy’s influence has been ever-present in his time at the Ospreys. He will leave a big hole as a player, a set piece expert, and a leader.

“The Ospreys have historically placed a high importance on having a strong front five and he has been a key contributor in that for a long time. He’s an elite professional, but most of all, a great person.

“While we’ll miss Beardy’s presence at the club, we have high hopes for a lot of our second rows that have come through the ranks recently. His departure will provide an opportunity for those boys, along with any new additions we have, to step up as leaders.”

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