Wilkinson, who is believed to have signed a two-year contract with Toulon, will end his 12-year association with the Falcons and become the latest England international to swap the Guinness Premiership for France's Top 14.

A Falcons statement read: "Newcastle Falcons have confirmed that fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is leaving the club, to take up a new challenge in France."

The injury-plagued Wilkinson, who turns 30 next Monday, has not played since dislocating a kneecap at Gloucester last September.

His debut for Toulon should come on the weekend of August 15/16 when next season's Top 14 campaign kicks off.

Falcons director of rugby Steve Bates said: "Jonny will undoubtedly go down as one of Newcastle's all-time greats.

"He has contributed an incredible amount to this club over the past 12 seasons, and been an inspirational figurehead for rugby in the north-east.

"Even during the times when his appearances for us were restricted he has always remained a positive presence behind the scenes, and everyone here thanks him for his fantastic service as well as wishing him all the best for his new life over in France."