Leicester Tigers sign Maxime Mermoz for remainder of season

Leicester Tigers have acquired the services of France international Maxime Mermoz for the remainder of the season.

The 30-year-old will join the Aviva Premiership club after obtaining necessary clearance from French Rugby Federation.

The decision to sign Mermoz comes after Leicester Tigers will miss internationals Manu Tuilagi and Matt Toomua due to long-term injuries.

Leicester Tigers interim head coach and former All Blacks centre Aaron Mauger believes Mermoz will lend the balance to the side for the rest of the season following the void created by the loss of Tuilagi and Toomua.

"We are missing two big players in our midfield, and we're very happy to be able to bring in a player of Maxime's style, quality and experience there.

"He has played at the highest level in France, in Europe and internationally, and we look forward to bringing him into the squad."

Having made his international debut in 2008, Mermoz went on to play 35 Tests for France with his last appearance coming in March 2016 against England at Stade de France.

Apart from his four-year experience with Toulon during which he helped them to European Champions Cup titles in 2013 and 2014, Mermoz was also part of Toulouse and Perpignan between 2005 and 2012.