Jason Tovey has left the Newport Gwent Dragons to join Edinburgh until the end of the season.
Even though the fly-half is making the move on a short-term deal, he will not be returning to Rodney Parade.
His decision is a blow to the Dragons just a fortnight before their crunch European Challenge Cup quarter-final against Gloucester and comes just weeks before Wales No.8 Taulupe Faletau departs for Bath.
But the Dragons have not tried to hold Tovey to the remaining few weeks of his current contract and have opted instead to put their faith in youngsters Dorian Jones and Angus O’Brien.
Tovey, 26, has been the region’s first choice No.10 for most of this season and has started 20 matches in all competitions.
But the agreement to release him includes a condition that he will not figure for Edinburgh in their visit to meet to the Dragons in the Guinness Pro 12 on Sunday.
The former Wales U20 cap said: “The Dragons have been a huge part of my life for such a long time and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity they gave me to play with some outstanding players who I now consider close friends.
“Also to the fans, who turn out week in, week out and give their all. It’s a shame I can’t get one more game to say goodbye.
“I look forward to helping Edinburgh achieve their goals for the rest of the season and thank them for the opportunity.”
Tovey played for the Dragons in his first spell between 2008 and 2012 before switching to join the Cardiff Blues.
But after just one unhappy season at the Arms Park, he returned to Rodney Parade and has played 163 games in total.
Dragons director of rugby Lyn Jones said: “Jason has been a great player for the Newport Gwent Dragons. He has had a fantastic season with us this year and we wish him all the best for the future.
“Moving to a team like Edinburgh Rugby will be a great opportunity for him. It’s a rugby environment outside of Wales which will serve him well for the future.
“We feel that our future is with the young talent in our squad and the likes of Dorian Jones, Angus O’Brien and Arwel Robson will all be contesting for game time between now and the end of the season.”
