Gaining international honours at Under-18 level and for Wales Sevens, the Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf product stormed onto the domestic scene with a man-of-the-match performance at outside half on his PRO12 debut against the Newport Gwent Dragons at the beginning of the 2012-13 season. He went on to get his first cap for Wales in the tour of Japan.
In 69 regional appearances Patchell has scored 517 points, including 11 tries. He scored 17 of Blues' 37 points in the Challenge Cup win over Montpellier on the weekend including a dramatic first minute try where he booted the ball into space before picking up and dotting down after only 43 seconds of play.
Jon Daniels, Scarlets General Manager of Rugby at the Scarlets said: "As we have stated previously, we are always interested in quality players who can add something to our squad and Rhys certainly fits that bill. He has the ability to make things happen on the field and we are delighted he will be joining us next season. He has taken great care to make the right decision for himself based on his very clear ambition to play outside half for Wales.
"He is still a young man with areas of his game requiring further development but under the tutelage of Stephen Jones we are hopeful Rhys can become the latest in a long line of Scarlets outside halves to wear the number 10 jersey of Wales."
Head Coach Wayne Pivac added: "Rhys is an exciting young player who will bring a new dimension to our game next season.
"He's been playing particularly well for the Blues in recent weeks. We will look to help Rhys fulfill his potential here at the Scarlets and he will be joining what is shaping up to be a very exciting backline."
Commenting on the news Patchell said: "Firstly, I'd like to thank Cardiff Blues for giving me an opportunity and supporting my development over the last few seasons.
"As a Cardiff boy it has been a really difficult decision to have to make, and one that I have deliberated over for quite some time.
"I will continue to give my all to the Blues as we look to build on recent victories in both the PRO12 and Challenge Cup. I will leave the region with fond memories and having made lifelong friends."
Guinness PRO12 Scarlets News
63x46.png){kind=logo}