France international Louis Picamoles rejoins Montpellier from Northampton

by The TRU Team Thursday 1 June 2017

Louis Picamoles had two years to run on his Northampton contract

©PA

Northampton Saints have confirmed the departure of France international Louis Picamoles from the Aviva Premiership club.

Picamoles will now rejoin Montpellier on what will be his second stint with the Top 14 club having previously played for them between 2004 and 2009.

The 31-year-old has also represented Toulouse for seven years between 2009 and 2016 before joining Northampton Saints.

It is reported that the Franklin's Gardens outfit has accepted a "significant transfer fee" to allow Picamols to feature for Montpellier in order to prolong his international career with France.

"The 31-year-old has received a proposal from Montpellier which will underpin the future financial stability for his family," Saints said in a statement.

"The club has therefore reluctantly agreed to the transfer and accepted a significant transfer fee for his services.

"This fee will be reinvested into the playing squad to ensure Northampton Saints continues to strive for success on the pitch. To achieve this, the Saints is looking to further strengthen the squad with new signings in addition to the world class talent already confirmed for 2017/18.

"The Saints' management would like to thank Louis for his contribution to this season and wish him all the best for the future."