WALES centre Nick Tompkins has been backed to “leave an indelible mark” on the Dragons after it was confirmed he has signed on a year-long loan.

The 25-year-old will play at Rodney Parade until the end of 2020/21, making the move because of European champions Saracens’ relegation from the English Premiership for salary cap breaches.

Tompkins came through the ranks at Sarries and is on a long-term deal, so an extended stay in Wales is not on the cards as he is not captured by the Welsh Rugby Union’s 60-cap rule.

The English club's director of rugby Mark McCall said: “We are thrilled that Nick has confirmed his long-term commitment to stay at the club."

However, the news that the classy centre will spend a year at Rodney Parade is a huge boost for Dean Ryan’s squad.

South Wales Argus:

“We’re delighted to be able to welcome a player of Nick’s calibre to the region,” said the director of rugby.

“He has enjoyed success in a Saracens shirt and he brings that winning mentality and attitude, as well as enjoying a fresh environment and competition in which to challenge himself.

“Nick’s experience will undoubtedly bring out the best in those around him in our squad and we know he will leave an indelible mark on his time at Rodney Parade.”

Tompkins follows Wales full-back/wing Jonah Holmes in signing for the Dragons but a move for ex-Australia back Joe Tomane has hit the buffers.

READ MORE: Dragons move for Tomane in the balance

Tompkins, whose maternal grandmother was born in Wrexham, make an eye-catching start in Test rugby during the Six Nations.

He scored a try on Test debut against Italy and started in the games against Ireland, France and England, impressing with his line-breaking ability and composure.

Tompkins will head to Newport to try and put the pressure on fit-again Jonathan Davies for Wales’ 13 jersey and potentially push himself into Lions contention.

The centre is excited about linking up with his new teammates ahead of the return to Guinness PRO14 action on August 22.

South Wales Argus:

“I am really looking forward to joining the Dragons,” said Tompkins, who has helped Saracens win four Premiership titles and three Champions Cups.

“The region is clearly making great progress, under the guidance of Dean Ryan, and I am really excited about contributing to the cause.”

On Sarries, he said: “I love this place, it’s my home. I wanted to sign my future here and make sure I can be here long-term.

“The friendships and the bonds you make have been brilliant and also the working relationships I have with the coaches have been brilliant. They’ve made me the player I am.”

South Wales Argus:

McCall said: “We are thrilled that Nick has confirmed his long-term commitment to stay at the club.

“As a youngster in our academy it was clear that Nick was a player of real potential and we have enjoyed watching him grow and develop both on the field and as a young man.

“As a club we are delighted that Nick has chosen to continue to realise his potential with Saracens.”

The Welsh Rugby Union and head coach Wayne Pivac were heavily involved in bringing Tompkins to Wales for a season as they prepare for a Test-heavy schedule.