Catalans Dragons have confirmed the signing of full-back Sam Tomkins from Wigan Warriors.
Tomkins has been linked with a move to Perpignan for a number of weeks, but the move has finally been announced after Wigan confirmed earlier today that he would depart the club.
The former England international brings considerable experience to the Dragons, having won three Super League Grand Finals and two Challenge Cups in two spells with the Warriors.
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He spent two years in the NRL with the New Zealand Warriors before returning to Wigan, but hasn’t added to his 23 England caps since.
It is a huge coup for a side not guaranteed to be in Super League next year, with Catalans lying bottom of the table with just three wins so far this season.
Catalans coach Steve McNamara said that Tomkins is “an outstanding leader, a decisive player and a formidable competitor.”
“His desire to join the Dragons and be part of our project was impressive,” he added.
“He has and continues to excel at the highest level. His winning culture and his incredible work ethic will have a big influence on our team and our club.”
Tomkins, who won the Man of Steel award in 2012, said that he is “very happy” to be moving to the south of France.
“I look forward to starting this new chapter of my career with the Dragons,” he said.
“Following my discussions with the club, it is clear that there are big ambitions for the future and I am happy to be part of the club project.
“I have worked with Steve McNamara for five years with the England team and I look forward to working with him again.
“I also have good friends who already play at the club like Micky McIlorum and Lewis Tierney, they both told me the good of the club, the staff and the group so I know that I will be in good hands.”
