The 26-year-old, who has been capped 23 times by his country, will arrive at the start of next season, subject to a working visa.

He will form an integral part of an increasingly powerful forward unit being forged at the club, which will also welcome Free State Cheetahs' prop WP Nel this summer.

His signing comes as more good news for the club after they became the first Scottish team to reach the semi-finals of the Heineken Cup by beating Toulouse 19-14.

Basilaia told the club's official website: "First of all I'd like to congratulate Edinburgh Rugby for their impressive victory over Toulouse in Heineken Cup.

"It's a great honour and opportunity for me to join such a high profile club and I'm really looking forward to being part of a very exciting future and playing alongside some very talented players.

Heightens enthusiasm

"The arrival of a new player always heightens supporters' enthusiasm and anticipation and I will not spare any efforts to meet those expectations from the moment I arrive in the capital.

"I'm in great shape, both physically and spiritually, and can't wait to pull on the black and red shirt of Edinburgh Rugby."

Head coach Michael Bradley added: "I believe that Dimitri will prove to be a very significant signing for Edinburgh Rugby.

"He's a fantastic fit for this club and will contribute a huge amount to an increasingly aggressive and combative forward unit at Edinburgh Rugby, while his ball handling skills are such that we can maintain and strengthen our fast-paced, offloading game.

"Dima has a tremendous work ethic and attitude to the sport. He's very excited about joining the club and I know he'll give everything to honour the black and red jersey."