Alex Corbisiero joins Northampton Saints

As expected and revealed in The Rugby Paper weeks ago, England prop Alex Corbisiero will join Northampton Saints next season.
With Tongan star Soane Tonga’uiha crossing The Channel to join Top14 side Racing Metro this summer, the London Irish loosehead was Jim Malinder’s main target ahead of the 2013/14 season.
Corbisiero joined London Irish as an 17-year-old and went on to make 76 appearances for the Exiles in seven seasons.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at London Irish and am grateful for everything that the club has given me,” Corbisiero said. “I’m looking forward to what will be a new challenge at Saints next summer.
“There is a great culture and hopefully I can help the team succeed whilst continuing my progression as a player, and I’m sure that Franklin’s Gardens will be a good environment for me in that regard.”
In a statement, London Irish Director of Rugby, Brian Smith said: “We are sad to see Alex go.
“We made him a very attractive offer to stay earlier this season but unfortunately Alex feels his future is elsewhere.
“He is an Academy product who has gone through to the first team and on to the International stage and we are immensely proud of that.
“We have some crucial games left this season and I know Alex will give his all in those games before departing for Northampton.”