Wales lock Luke Charteris has announced that he will be leaving Newport-Gwent Dragons at the end of the PRO12 season.

Charteris had been in talks with the Dragons over a contract extension, but the second-row has been tempted by a move to France, with Perpignan linked to signing the 28-year-old.

"A player's career doesn't last forever and I want to experience as much as I can," Charteris said.

"Being a professional rugby player gives an opportunity to travel and see the world which I feel I can't pass up.

"The chance to live in a different country and enjoy a new culture and way of life is one not everybody gets."

Wales coach Warren Gatland has previously warned that players who chose to leave Wales risk the chance of missing out on selection if they cannot secure release for all international duties, but Charteris's agent has said that the player will insist on full release.

Despite the likely move to France, Charteris says that a return to the Dragons could materialise in the future.

"I have always been very clear that if I was to stay in Wales it would be with the Dragons. This is my region and it has been a really difficult decision to decide to move on," he said.

"I'm only 28 and I see the Dragons as my home team so after a stint abroad I could perhaps come back a better player to Rodney Parade."

Charteris follows fellow Welsh internationals Mike Phillips, Lee Byrne and James Hook in being tempted to the Top 14.