Wentzel was released from the remaining 19 month of his Leeds contract last week © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Marco Wentzel

Tournaments/Tours: Aviva Premiership

Teams: Leeds Tykes | Wasps

London Wasps have announced the signing of former Leeds captain Marco Wentzel.

The 32-year-old lock, capped twice by South Africa, makes the move to Adams Park just three days after being released from the last 19 months of his Leeds contract in the wake of their relegation from the Aviva Premiership.

"It was a hard decision for me to leave Leeds, but I believe it is the best decision for me and the future of the club," said Wentzel who previously spent two seasons with Leicester Tigers. "I really enjoyed my time there and made some great friends. I must thank all my team-mates and the fans for their amazing support the past two years.

"On the other hand, I am really looking forward to join a club with a proud history like Wasps and believe I can play a part to get them back where they belong at the top of English and European rugby."

London Wasps chief executive Chris Thomas welcomed the latest addition to the Wasps squad, commenting: "Marco will be a fantastic addition to our pack for next season. We think it's really important that we have a balance between young talent and experienced senior players and he definitely fits the bill for the second part of that equation. He has much admired leadership qualities and we know that he is considered a fantastic professional in how he carries himself on and off the pitch."

Wentzel joins a number of new faces at London Wasps next season with senior squad arrivals announced so far including, Jeremy Castex (Narbonne), Steve Thompson (Leeds), Ross Filipo ( Bayonne), Nicky Robinson (Gloucester), Ryan Davies (Exeter), Chris Bell (Sale), Chris Mayor (Gran Parma), Jonathan Poff (Crusaders) and Simon McIntyre (Sale).