Japanese club Kubota Spears have confirmed the signing of Wales full-back Liam Williams.
Cardiff had been keen to offload one of their highest earners as they prepare for their budget to come down severely over the next couple of seasons.
The 32-year-old heads to Japan despite being halfway through a two-year deal at the Arms Park. Cardiff said on social media: "Diolch a pob lwc Sanjay."
First, though, he says he will be doing everything he can to be selected for Warren Gatland's Wales World Cup squad.
"I’m delighted to announce that I have signed with Kubota Spears for next season," Williams posted on social media. "I have fond memories of playing in Japan during the 2019 World Cup and will never forget how welcoming everyone was. I am looking forward to experiencing a new way of life with my wife Sophie and we are excited about the opportunity.
"I have made some incredible memories in Welsh rugby over the years and must thank the Welsh Rugby Union and Cardiff rugby for their understanding in what has been a challenging few months. I will be doing everything possible to be selected for the World Cup campaign with Wales and am excited about the opportunity to be involved Diolch, Liam."
Williams will head to Japan after this year's World Cup in France, should he be selected in Gatland's 33-man squad. The move was understood to be dependent on a stringent medical given his history of injuries.
Williams joined Cardiff from Scarlets before the 2022-23 campaign, but made just four appearances in his first season because of a number of injuries.
He is the latest international to leave Welsh regional rugby.
