Helguson scored 20 goals for Watford last season

Newly promoted Wigan and Sunderland had both been interested in signing Helguson, who has signed a four-year deal with Fulham in a �1.3m transfer.

Watford had previously accepted a �1.1m bid for Helguson, 27, from Sunderland, with another �250,000 to be paid if the Black Cats avoided relegation.

Helguson told Fulham's website: "When the chance came to return to the Premiership I couldn't turn it down."

Helguson, who scored 20 goals last season, cost Watford �1.5m in 2000.

Helguson scored four goals in the last five matches as Watford avoided relegation to League One.

He had already turned down the offer of a new contract from Watford.

"I enjoyed my time at Watford as I made many good friends there over the years," he added.

The lure of the Premiership has proved too strong to resist Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd

"I am happy to join Fulham and am looking forward to working with the management team and hopefully to securing my place in the starting line-up."

Premiership West Ham United as well as Championship clubs Sheffield United and Leeds United had also courted former Lillestrom forward Helguson.

Fulham boss Chris Coleman said: "I know that Heidar has a great goalscoring record and has proven that he can play at the highest level internationally and I am looking forward to working with him.

"The chairman (Mohammad Al Fayed) has enabled me to continue strengthening the squad and we have made some changes in the backroom staff.

"So I am looking forward to pre-season enormously when we can begin to take shape for the new campaign ahead."

Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd said: "I've made no secret of the fact that I'd like to have had Heidar as part of squad next season.

"But the lure of the Premiership has proved too strong to resist and I can understand any player wanting to test themselves at the highest possible level.