Monday 14 May 2018 20:46, UK
Catalans Dragons have signed Sam Tomkins from Wigan on an initial three-year contract, with an option for a fourth season.
The 2012 Man of Steel, who turned 29 in March, will link up with the French club at the end of the current season.
Tomkins said: "I'm really looking forward to the next chapter of my career at the Dragons.
"I have always enjoyed playing at the Gilbert Brutus Stadium and it will be good to call it home."
Tomkins, who has won 23 England caps, says the chance to link up with former England coach Steve McNamara was a factor behind his decision to leave his home-town club for a second time.
The former New Zealand Warrior, who will play alongside former Wigan team-mates Michael McIlorum and Lewis Tierney in Perpignan, said: "After speaking with Catalans, it was clear the club has big ambitions for the future and I want to be part of that.
"I have worked with Steve for five years at international level and I am looking forward to working with him again.
"I have good friends already playing at the club in Micky and Lewis and they speak very highly of the club, players and staff, so I know I'm in good hands."
The capture of Tomkins, who became Wigan's marquee player when he returned from the NRL, is a bold statement by the Catalans, who are currently battling to avoid a second successive season in the Super 8s Qualifiers.
Dragons chief executive, Christophe Jouffret, said: "The club is moving forward and, in signing one of the best players in Super League history, we are making a statement of intent.
"His desire to join our club has found an echo in our wish to add to our squad a new, outstanding, and talented player."
