Aviva Premiership
Shark Burrell to become a Saint
ESPNscrum Staff
March 27, 2012
Sale's Luther Burrell tries to take the ball forward, Sale v Brive, Amlin Challenge Cup, Edgeley Park, Sale, January 19, 2012
Northampton hope Luther Burrell's power will be a big asset next season © Getty Images
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Northampton Saints have confirmed the signing of Sale Sharks centre Luther Burrell.

The 24-year-old, who joined Sale from Leeds Carnegie last summer, will move to Franklin's Gardens for the beginning of next season. His impending arrival will follow the departure of current Saints centres James Downey and Jon Clarke.

"It's going to be a new adventure for me," Burrell told the Saints website. "I want to be playing inside centre and I believe the club suits the way I play. I'm a physical player and like to get teams onto the front foot."

Burrell added: "Obviously with James Downey leaving I know I've got big boots to fill. I've got a lot of respect for James and have played against him a number of times. But hopefully I can step in and bring something to the Saints squad."

Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder said: "We've seen a lot of Luther in action against us in the past five years and think that he will fit in well to the way we like to play the game. He carries the ball very well and gets over the gain line. But he also has the ability to bring other players around him into the game as well, and is a strong defender."

Northampton have already confirmed the signings of South African forward Gerrit-Jan van Velze and former Rotherham captain Sam Dickinson for next season.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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