France international Mathieu Bastareaud will become the biggest name to play in the United States when he joins Rugby United New York on a season-long loan deal next season.
Bastareaud will leave Top14 side Toulon to play in Major League Rugby after this year's World Cup, before returning to the French side for the 2020-21 campaign to see out the remainder of his contract.
The 30-year-old has enjoyed an illustrious career for his country -- earning 54 international caps and helping France secure the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2010.
Bastareaud has also been influential during his time with club side Toulon, securing the league title in 2014 and winning three consecutive European Champions Cup trophies.
"I've decided to join New York after the World Cup," he told Canal+ on the weekend. "I wanted a change. It's the best compromise for me in terms of my family life and life experience."
The centre will be the second marquee signing for the American club after they signed England international Ben Foden last year.
"We're very pleased to officially announce the signing of Bastareaud for the 2020 season, he's a world class player," Rugby United general manager James English said in a statement. "Details are being finalized but we are very excited to have him on loan from Toulon.
"He's gonna bring a lot of experience and will be a big presence on and off the field for RUNY. This also gives us a great opportunity to further connect with our French fan base here in NYC."