World Cup-winning South Africa back rower Jasper Wiese will leave Leicester Tigers at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old had been linked with a move to Top 14 side Stade Francais after helping the Springboks defend their title in October.
Wiese, a key member of Leicester’s 2022 Premiership title winning side, is leaving for an unnamed overseas club.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time at the club and will continue to give my all,” Wiese told the club website.
“This is a special place for me and my family, and we have a lot more memories to create this season.”
Wiese has become an integral figure at Tigers since arriving from Pro14 side Cheetahs in the summer of 2020.
He was instrumental in their Premiership final win against Saracens two years later, scoring a try in their 15-12 triumph at Twickenham.
When addressing rumours about his Tigers future in November, Wiese said he had “never been important enough” to be spoken about in such ways.
Tigers general manager Richard Wilks said Leicester would “miss him”.
“The nature of professional sport and our global game means players grow and seek new opportunities and he’ll leave us with our best wishes,” Wilks added.
“We’re immensely proud of Jasper and the player and person he’s become at Leicester Tigers.
“Jasper joined us as a relatively unknown back rower from the Cheetahs and will leave us a 27-times-capped Springbok and a Rugby World Cup winner.”
