Cooper, who will turn 30 just before his arrival, will replace the outgoing Jason Spice as first choice scrum half, and is likely to forge a brand new half back pairing with Sam Norton-Knight.

The Blues have had to release Spice, who has impressed with his control of games from 9 in his two years at the Arms Park, to make a non-Welsh Qualified space for Aussie Norton-Knight, while Nicky Robinson's future seemingly changes every day.

It's Cardiff's second confirmed arrival, but comes as no surprise as rumours have been around for most of the season. It's likely to be the Blues marquee signing ahead of the stadium move to Leckwith, as there has been relatively few transfer links other than in the 9 and 10 positions which are now filled.

Cooper has been one of Gloucester's fringe players this season, having suffered bad luck with injury as well as the impressive form of Rory Lawson. He's started both games against the Blues in the Heineken Cup, but was on the losing side both times, and was criticised for his role the more recent home loss when the Welsh capitol played 53 minutes with 14 men.

However there can be no doubting the guy's calibre, with 35 Welsh caps and 1 Lions appearance to his name he's the most experienced scum half Cardiff have had since Rob Howley and will hopefully bring an extra running dimension to our game.

Having previously looked out of the running to be Wales' first choice, Cooper had a fantastic comeback match for Wales against South Africa and was vital in the win over Australia in the summer, so his return to the Principality will please Warren Gatland no end. He will compete with Ritchie Rees and Darren Allinson for the Blues next season.

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