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The Ospreys are set to sign former All Black scrum-half Brendan Leonard in time for the start of next season.

Leonard is currently playing for Italian minnows Zebre, but the 29-year-old is understood to have committed to coming to the Liberty Stadium.

His move would need to be cleared by the Welsh Rugby Union before it is sealed, but if it does get the green light then it would be a real coup for the Ospreys.

Leonard would be ideal cover for Rhys Webb when the Wales No.1 is absent on World Cup duty during the first few months of next season.

But the former Waikato Chiefs player would also be an experienced presence in and around the squad in the same way ex-New Zealand players Jerry Collins, Justin Marshall and Marty Holah used to be during their time with the region.

Gallery: Ospreys v Northampton

Leonard was believed to be moving to Toulouse last season but he remains in Italy where his quality and high-tempo approach has really caught the eye in Guinness Pro12 encounters.

He was a key influence, for example, as Zebre did the double over Cardiff Blues in the league last season.

Reports in Italy claim Leonard has already signed a deal with the Ospreys who, for the moment, are staying quiet about the matter.