Ulster end Stuart Hogg speculation by signing fullback Louis Ludik

Ulster have ruled out a possible move for Glasgow and Scotland fullback Stuart Hogg after they announced that their final non-Irish qualified signing will be South African fullback Louis Ludik.

The 27-year-old former Sharks and Golden Lions back has agreed a two-year deal and will move to Belfast from France, where he was playing with Pro D2 side Agen.

Speculation had grown that 21-year-old Hogg could be a possible signing at Ravenhill after being left out of the Warriors side of late, but Ulster moved quickly to end the rumours with the signing of Ludik.

The decision to sign a fullback indicates that Jared Payne, who has been alternating between 15 and 13, may take up a more permanent residence at outside centre as his name is in the hat for a shot at playing Brian O'Driscoll's position. Payne will be Irish qualified in October.

On announcing the signing, Ulster director of rugby David Humphreys said: "Louis, as our final non Irish eligible signing for 2014/15 season, will add quality and provide experience to our young backline and his experience of Northern Hemisphere rugby in France over the past season means he is well prepared for the challenges of European rugby.

“With an increasing number of Ulster players involved in the Ireland international set-up it is important for us to continue to build a squad with strength in depth in all positions.”

Ludik has played 76 Super Rugby and won two Currie Cups in his three-year spell with the Sharks and was included in the Springboks training squad in 2008.

“When I heard that there might be a chance to join Ulster I was very excited as it is a province with a great history and proud fans,” said Ludik. “I watched a few Ulster games this season and I was really impressed by the passion and character that the team showed. The Ulster backline is packed full of top international players and it will be a challenge for me to try and break into the team.”