Luger has been in contact with a number of clubs including Perpignan

The 28-year-old is reported to have signed a three-year-deal to join the French club after this year's World Cup.

"It was now or never," Luger told the News of the World newspaper.

"It's something I've always wanted to do and I didn't want to make this sort of move as an afterthought at the end of my career. I wanted to go while I'm still playing well.

Have Your Say Should Luger leave Harlequins?

"It isn't about money - the deal is similar to the one I had at Harlequins. The lifestyle appeals just as much.

"Part of me wanted to stay and, in many ways, that might have been easier. But I'll always be a Quin.

"If I'm playing well when this contract ends in 2006 and Quins want me, I could come back."