Wednesday 25 April 2018 14:41, UK
Wales wing George North has agreed to join Ospreys from Northampton Saints this summer.
North signed a National Dual Contract with the WRU in November, confirming his return to Wales.
And the Ospreys have secured the signature of the 73 times-capped North, one day after announcing Allen Clarke's appointment as head coach on Tuesday.
"I'm really excited to be joining the Ospreys and starting a new chapter in my career when I return to Wales," said North.
"I believe the Ospreys have an exciting future with the structure and the recruitment they have put in place and I'm really looking forward to linking up with Allen (Clarke) and the squad in the summer.
"It was a really positive decision for me to sign a National Dual Contract with the support and structure it provides.
"I have worked alongside the WRU to finalise my choice of region and I would like to thank everyone involved. I'm really looking forward to becoming an Osprey."
National dual contracts are funded 60 per cent by the WRU and 40 per cent by a player's regional team.
North made his Test debut in 2010 and toured with the British and Irish Lions to Australia in 2013 and New Zealand last year.
The 26-year-old played for Scarlets prior to joining Northampton in 2013 but head coach Wayne Pivac ruled out a return earlier this month, when he stated his side were not in the market to sign another back-three player this summer.
The Ospreys will lose Wales international half-backs Dan Biggar and Rhys Webb to Northampton and Toulon, respectively, next season, but North now joins Wales centre Scott Williams in moving to the Liberty Stadium.
Ospreys' rugby general manager Dan Griffiths said: "We are delighted to be able to add George to our squad for next season.
"A truly world-class player, he is someone that everybody at the region is excited about seeing in an Ospreys jersey - supporters, players and coaches alike.
"George has taken his time to ensure that his decision was the right one, and it is fantastic news that he sees our environment as the best place to be going forward."
And WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips added: "George returning home to Wales is a major positive for Welsh rugby and for the Ospreys. I know he is really looking forward to next season and making a positive impact on Welsh rugby."
