Italian legend Sergio Parisse has signed for RC Toulon on a one-year deal the club have announced.
The Italian captain only confirmed on Friday that he would be leaving long-term club Stade Francais, but Toulon have already confirmed the capture of his signature.
Stade Francais announced on Friday that they and Parisse had “decided by mutual agreement to put an end to the contract that binds them”.
Parisse also posted an emotional statement of his own on social media about the club that he won the Top 14 title with in 2007.
“Thank you, Max. Thank you to the players, friends, brothers. Thank you to the fans and all those who have contributed to making this incredible love story possible!! Thank you Paris!!” he said.
The veteran back rower made his international debut for Italy in 2002 and has led from the front for his country since going on to become the record appearance holder in the Six Nations.
In 2008 he was nominated for the IRB World Rugby Player of the Year Award and is set to captain his country to yet another Rugby World Cu later this year when they head to Japan.
It is a massive signing for Toulon, who are looking to bounce back following a poor season, while it will also come as great news to Italian fans who will hope that Parisse will kit out for them once again during next year’s Six Nations.