Monday 9 May 2016 11:22, UK
Tonga prop Halani Aulika is set to leave London Irish and join Sale Sharks this summer after four years at the club.
The 32-year-old is one of the first players to have his departure from Irish confirmed, after the Reading-based club were relegated from the Aviva Premiership.
Sale boss Steve Diamond admitted he jumped at the chance to sign the 6ft 3in, 120kg tighthead.
"I have been watching Aulika all season and when his agent got in touch I didn't hesitate in signing him," Diamond told the club's website.
"He is a great scrummager and puts himself about on the pitch.
"I am sure he will be a big asset for us next season and beyond."
Irish will this summer drop out of English rugby's top flight for the first time since 1994, but the Exiles remain bullish about continuing to stage matches at Reading's Madejski Stadium and bidding for a quick return to the Premiership.
Sale's sixth-place finish secures top-tier European rugby in next season's Champions Cup, with boss Diamond still eyeing new recruits where possible.
