French club Perpignan have snapped up the services of Australian international Manuel Edmonds on a three-year contract from Super 12 outfit the NSW Waratahs.

The 25-year-old two-time capped star has played for the Waratahs since 1997 ends the French side's serach for a replacement for former international flyhalf Thierry Lacroix.

Edmonds made 35 appearances for the Waratahs in Super 12 scoring 156 points and played an influential role in Australia 'A''s two recent triumphs over their French counterparts.

After originally beginning last season's Super 12 as a first XV pick, injury brought a halt to his season and allowed teammate Duncan McRae to cement a place in the team.

It is thought the potential lack of opportunity at the Waratahs next season, the depth of talent the Wallabies have in his positions and the player's desire to take up a lucrative overseas contract all played a part in his decision to move.

Edmonds, who can also play on the wing or at fullback, is the 10th new arrival at Perpignan in the close season and the second Waratah, centre Ed Carter having already agreed to move to France.

The Waratahs have also released details of other contract dealings involving some of their stars.

The New South Wales Rugbyt Union has re-signed Scott Staniforth, Chris Whitaker, Jono West and Tim Clarke and terms have been agreed prop Matt Dunning and former Brumbies hooker Adam Freier

The NSWRU also hope to come to terms with number eight David Lyons & lock Tom Bowman in the near future.

However, Marc Stcherbina and Ed Carter will follow Edmonds overseas once they have completed their commitments to their Sydney clubs.