King has scored seven tries for the Scarlets this season

The New Zealander, 27, had reportedly been a transfer target of local rivals the Ospreys but he has now pledged his future to the Stradey Park outfit.

King had a deal until 2009, but has no tied himself to the region until 2011.

He said: "With a new state of the art stadium to play in around the corner, I wanted to be part of what I'm sure is going to be a successful future."

Since making a try-scoring debut for the Scarlets against Worcester Warriors in August 2005, the once-capped All Black has become one of the Scarlets' most consistent performers.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to King's new deal

He has made 81 appearances for the Scarlets and scored 26 tries in the process, setting up many more tries with his piercing breaks and subtle passes.

Those skills had predictably brought him many admirers, and with rumours of unrest at the Scarlets following news of Dwayne Peel's imminent departure and Stephen Jones' decision to seek offer elsewhere, his future at the region had been in doubt.

But the Scarlets management always stressed their faith in King's commitment, and chief executive Stuart Gallacher said he was delighted to secure him on a long-term deal.

"Regan is a very integral part of the squad and is a world class performer and his signature shows how determined we are to build for the future," said Gallacher.