Matthew Morgan will leave Bristol at the end of the season after signing a two-year deal with the Cardiff Blues.
The 23-year-old was named the Championship Player of the Year for his first season in the West Country but he will return to Wales next season to further his international ambitions.
His performances in the Championship, along with injuries to Leigh Halfpenny and Liam Williams, helped him to be selected for Wales’ World Cup campaign and he won the last of his five caps in the pool game against Fiji.
He said: “I’m very proud to be joining Cardiff Blues and feel I can test myself and develop the skills I need to keep knocking on the door for Wales, an ambition I’m working towards every day to fulfil.
“I want to thank Andy Robinson for the opportunity he gave me at Bristol, and Warren Gatland for the opportunity he gave me during the World Cup, two experiences I’ve hugely enjoyed and learnt from.
“I also want to reassure fans of Bristol that I’ll do everything I can to support the club from now until the end of the season. I’ve had a number of offers from England, France and Japan, but felt moving back to Wales was the correct decision to achieve my goals at this point in my career.”
Head Coach Danny Wilson added: “I’m absolutely delighted to sign Matthew and to welcome him to Cardiff Blues from next season.
“Matthew offers a huge attacking threat and I’m sure the playing surface at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park will be well suited to his game.
“I’ve worked with Matthew before and know what a dedicated and committed professional he is. I’m sure he will want to have a big end to the season with Bristol Rugby and then make a successful return to Wales.”