Lyons has signed a four-year deal with the Scarlets

Llanelli Scarlets have signed Australian number eight David Lyons from NSW Waratahs on a four-year deal.

The 27-year-old has played 43 Tests for Australia and represented the Wallabies at two World Cups.

Lyons' arrival has seen Alix Popham depart for French side Brive after the two sides agreed a six-figure compensation fee.

"This is a great opportunity for me and my family to experience a new culture and lifestyle," said Popham.

The 28-year-old has played 62 games for the Scarlets since making his debut against an Army selection in August 2005.

He has also won 33 Welsh caps and is hoping to add more in the near future.

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Lyons is now back to full fitness after breaking his ankle playing for the Wallabies against Canada at last year's World Cup.

His international career started in 2000, the same year he made his State and Super Rugby debuts.

And he went on a seven-year run of not missing a match for the Waratahs in the Super 12/14 competition stretching to 83 games.

"I met with David and his representatives in Sydney last week in what was an extremely productive meeting," said Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher.

"David outlined his reasons on why he wanted to play in Europe, and with a change of lifestyle and new surroundings, we are confident he will flourish with the Scarlets."

Jenkins is also rumoured to be in the running for a job as Elite Performance Director at the Scarlets.