Italian scrum half Tito Tebaldi is hoping to relaunch his career after agreeing a switch to Harlequins until the end of the season.

The 27-year-old, who has collected 20 caps for Italy since his debut in 2009, joins the club from the Ospreys for whom he featured only 19 times after arriving in Wales from Zebre in 2013.

Tebaldi replaces Sam Stuart in the squad, who has left the club for personal reasons.

Quins director of rugby Conor O’Shea said: “In the circumstances we are delighted to welcome a player of Tito’s experience, who is looking forward to a fresh start.

"We hope we can provide the right impetus for him to re-launch his career through Harlequins.”

And Tebaldi admitted he was a lucky man to get a shot at proving himself in the Premiership.

“I’m really excited to be joining Harlequins. I can’t wait to play for the club and I am grateful to have been given this opportunity," he added.

“I’m looking forward to moving to London and continuing my career there.”

Meanwhile, Harlequins, who have added fly half Tim Swiel to their Champions Cup squad, have confirmed Sunday's clash with Leinster at the Stoop is a sell out.