Scotland winger Sean Lamont has left Northampton and signed for the Scarlets on a three-year contract.

Lamont, who has won 38 Test caps for Scotland, was out of contract at Franklin's Gardens after four years with the Saints.

The 28-year-old had initially been linked with a move to France but he will become a powerful addition to the Scarlets back division.

"I'm thrilled to be joining the Scarlets. They're building an exciting squad and are based at one of the finest rugby facilities I've ever seen," said Lamont.

"There's great passion for the sport in Wales - especially across the Scarlets' region - so I can't wait to get going and join up with a great group of players and such a well-known rugby club with proud traditions.

"I'm determined to make a major contribution on and off the field. The Scarlets supporters can expect a massive amount of commitment and dedication from me.

"I've had four good years at Northampton and will be leaving behind a lot of good friends. I thank them for all they've done for me but I'm now ready for a fresh start and a new chapter with the Scarlets at this imposing stadium and look forward to making an impact."

Lamont won the Scotland player of the season award in 2007 but his last two years have been badly disrupted by injury.

He passed a medical with the Scarlets and head coach Nigel Davies is excited by the new arrival.

"We've had our eye on Sean for some time. He'll bring pace, great power and considerable skill to our backs unit," said Davies.

"He's a man of experience, with a lot of game time in the international arena, and that can only be a good thing for our squad as we look to bring on and develop our own up-and-coming Welsh players.

"I have said repeatedly that we want to revitalise and balance this Scarlets squad for the long-term and that means bringing in some top end, quality players in the right positions, where we need strength and experience - as well as backing and developing some exceptional emerging Welsh talent.

"Sean Lamont is a seasoned professional, a top-class international with a proven record, and has been playing really well for the Saints recently.

"He fits well into our set-up, will have an impact on the field and help raise the game of some of our younger players. We are really pleased he is joining us."