Balshaw has struggled with fitness

The 25-year-old failed to agree a new contract at the Recreation Ground and has now signed a three-year deal with the Tykes from next season.

"Joining Leeds, an ambitious club, will be a great challenge for me. I'm from the North so there is the added bonus of heading back 'home'," said Balshaw.

The player, who featured in England's World Cup triumph, is currently sidelined with a groin injury.

Leeds director of rugby, Phil Davies, said: "I am delighted to have signed a player of Iain's quality.

"He is a very ambitious player and he will be a vital component of our team as we move forward in the coming years to the next level.

"Iain has chosen to come to us ahead of offers from other clubs and I know he is looking forward to coming back to the North of England."

Bath rugby director Jack Rowell said that the club wished Balshaw well in his new career at Headingley.

Iain now has the opportunity of a fresh start with Leeds and we wish him well Bath rugby director Jack Rowell

"Iain joined Bath in his late teens and made an early impact with his pace and his rugby ability," said Rowell.

"Success with the club led to international recognition both with England, as part of the Rugby World Cup-winning squad, and with the 2001 Lions.

"However, in recent seasons, Iain has suffered an unfortunate run of injuries which have limited his appearances. He now has the opportunity of a fresh start with Leeds next season, and we wish him well."

Balshaw has only started six club games this season and has suffered long periods of inactivity in recent years after surgery on both shoulders and an ankle.

Balshaw was on the field as a replacement when England clinched the World Cup in Australia last November.

He started the first three matches of the Six Nations before injury intervened again, and might not play again this season.

Leeds sign Bell

The move to Headingley reunites Balshaw with former Bath coach Jon Callard, under whom he flourished at the Rec.

The signing fills the gap left by another England international, Dan Scarbrough, who also plays full-back or wing like Balshaw and is heading to Saracens.