JJ Hanrahan will be a Saints player © Getty Images

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Northampton Saints have signed versatile back JJ Hanrahan from Munster.

Hanrahan is equally adept at fly-half and inside centre and will bring his own creativity to Northampton's backs. Munster were keen to keep the 22-year-old but the Saints have got their man and he will join at the end of the season.

"JJ is a tremendous prospect," Northampton boss Jim Mallinder said. "He has consistently shown that he has the ability to compete at the highest level of club rugby. But while we are looking forward to having JJ join us in the summer we are particularly excited about seeing him develop over the coming years at Franklin's Gardens."

Hanrahan was shortlisted for the 2012 IRB Young Player of the Year and is relishing the chance to shine at Northampton. He said: "I'm excited by the challenge that awaits me at Northampton Saints and I hope that I can help continue the Club's recent successes in England and to challenge for European honours.

"I was hugely impressed by the setup at Franklin's Gardens. Like Munster, Northampton is a club that has a proud history, great structures and a passionate local supporter base. I am really looking forward to testing myself in a new environment.

"I have had nothing but positive experiences at Munster. It is my home club and running out in the red jersey has been and remains a great privilege. The coaching staff, from the Academy through to the senior coaches, have been brilliant with me since I entered the Academy. I remain fully committed to the Munster cause in the Pro 12 and the European Champions Cup for the remainder of the season."

In announcing news of his departure from Munster, their CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said: "We understand his reasons for leaving at the end of the season and appreciate the opportunity available to him. We have done everything possible in looking to retain such a skilful player and offered a highly competitive package in the process but unfortunately the decision is out of our hands. We would like to wish JJ all the best, he is a talented player with a very bright future ahead of him."