Leigh Halfpenny is coming home to Wales having joined the Scarlets by signing a three year WRU National Dual Contract.
The 28-year-old points machine is returning after a three-year spell with French giants Toulon.
Confirmation of his move to the Scarlets ends months of speculation over his future, during which he has been linked with his former region Cardiff Blues, along with English clubs Wasps, Bath and Leicester.
“I’m delighted to be coming back to play in Wales,” said the 71-cap full-back.
“I would like to thank the Scarlets and the WRU for giving me the opportunity to sign a National Dual Contract and I can’t wait to get started.”
Adding his thoughts, Wales coach Warren Gatland said: “It is great news for Welsh rugby that Leigh Halfpenny is returning to play his rugby in Wales.
“The NDC system helps us to bring these players back and I look forward to seeing him play for the Scarlets.”
His sentiments were endorsed by WRU chief executive, Martin Phillips, who added: “I’m delighted we are able to announce Leigh’s return to Wales.
“His signature rubber stamps our commitment to the game here in Wales by having our best players playing their rugby on home soil which is vital to the future health of our game.
“We have made no secret of that and the importance both on and off the field at regional and national level in Welsh players playing their rugby in Wales.”
Wayne Pivac, who guided the Scarlets to Guinness Pro12 glory last season, believes Lions star Halfpenny is a vital piece in the jigsaw as he looks to bring future success to the region.
“Leigh joining is great news for the club, the supporters, the team and the region as a whole,” he said.
“With the experience of Liam and DTH moving on at the end of last season we’ve added some new players to the squad, some exciting young talent, and a guy like Leigh brings a lot of experience to the squad that he will share with those young players.
“It has worked out really well and we look forward to welcoming Leigh and he’s really excited to be joining the Scarlets because of the way we play the game.”
Scarlets General Manager of Rugby Jon Daniels added: “We are delighted to finally be in a position to confirm that Leigh Halfpenny will be joining us at the Scarlets for the forthcoming season and beyond.
“He is a proven performer on the international stage and his qualities both on and off the pitch will be a great addition to our squad as we endeavour to build on the success of last season.”
