WALES centre Jamie Roberts will move to Bath from their Premiership rivals Harlequins at the end of the season.

The 31-year-old former Cardiff Blues powerhouse moved to the Twickenham Stoop from Racing 92 in 2015.

The centre was linked with a move to Japan but instead is set for the Rec.

Roberts said: “I’m really excited to have signed for Bath– it’s a club with a great deal of ambition, which was crucial in making my decision to come here.

“There is no doubt that Bath can mix it with the best in both the Aviva Premiership and in Europe over the next few years, and I’m looking forward to being part of the journey.”

Roberts has won 94 caps for Wales since making his debut in 2008 and has been on two British and Irish Lions tours. His last Test appearance was against New Zealand in November but he was left out of the Six Nations squad.

With Hadleigh Parkes, Jonathan Davies, Scott Williams, Owen Watkin and Tyler Morgan the prime options in midfield, Bath are likely to have his services all season long but Roberts will try and push for a recall ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

Director of rugby Todd Blackadder said: “We are delighted to bring someone of his quality to the club, and I know will make an instant impact when he comes in this summer.

“He’s hugely respected both on and off the field, and it’s those qualities which makes this a really significant signing for the club.

“Not only that, but he’s hugely ambitious and I believe that both Bath and Wales will reap the rewards from this move.”