Wasps have confirmed the high-profile signing of former Australia flanker George Smith, who will join the club ahead of the 2015-16 season.

Smith, who will turn 35 in July, lies third on the list of Australia's most-capped players, having represented his country 111 times.

The former Brumbies, Toulon and Stade Francais man moves to the Ricoh Arena from Lyon and Wasps director of rugby Dai Young is thrilled by his capture.

"George Smith is one of the greats of his generation. To be able to add a player of his international experience and quality is a real coup for Wasps," said Young.

"Despite being 34 years old, he has shown through his form at Lyon this season that he is still one of the sharpest operators in the game.

"He is in tremendous shape and his reading of the game and winning mentality should benefit Wasps hugely next season.

"We learnt this year, that competing at the sharp end of the Aviva Premiership and in the latter stages of the European Champions Cup requires real depth and experience to the squad.

"George has been there and done it. As a player, he has that hard, abrasive edge you need in a team, as well as years of experience of winning big trophies and tight games to draw on, when we are hopefully competing at the top end of the table again next season."

Wasps finished sixth in the Premiership this season and lost out to Toulon in the quarter-finals of the European Champions Cup.

Smith added: "I am very excited to be joining Wasps. I have always admired their history in Europe and it's clear from developments on and off the field this season that Wasps are a very progressive and ambitious club, who are determined to get back to the top of the European game.

"I have really enjoyed the experience of playing in France, Japan and Australia and I am extremely motivated to test myself in the Aviva Premiership."