Louis Picamoles leaves Northampton for Montpellier
Wednesday 31 May 2017 13:08, UK
Northampton have "reluctantly agreed" to let France international Louis Picamoles return to the Top 14 to play for Montpellier.
Picamoles, who was only one year into a three-year contract, will rejoin his first professional club, as the French Rugby Federation now wants its internationals to be playing in the French division.
The club have accepted a "significant transfer fee" for the 31-year-old's services, who featured 20 times during the 2016/17 season including five matches in the European Rugby Champions Cup.
"I am proud to have played for Northampton Saints and I have enjoyed my time with the club," Picamoles said.
"I am grateful for all the support and friendship I have received from the club, the coaches, my team mates and supporters."
Northampton said in a statement: "The 31-year-old has received a proposal from Montpellier which will underpin the future financial stability for his family.
"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."
The French No 8 has made more than 60 appearances for France after making his international debut against Ireland in the 2008 Six Nations and joined Northampton from Toulouse in 2016.
