Chief Executive Tom Sears said: "We are bitterly disappointed to lose Mike McCarthy, who has been a popular senior member of our squad. While disappointed, particularly given the continued success of Connacht Rugby in recent years, we respect the individual player's decision and wish Mike every success in his future playing career.

"We have been aware of Leinster's interest in Mike for some time. It is disappointing they have persistently targeted Connacht players in recent years, particularly when often not in the best interest of Irish Rugby."