Tigers confirm the signing of France international centre Maxime Mermoz

Tigers agreed terms with the 30-year-old Mermoz after losing both Matt Toomua and Manu Tuilagi to long-term injury this season and have now received official clearance from the French Rugby Federation for his move to Welford Road.

"We are missing two big players in our midfield and we're very happy to be able to bring in a player of Maxime's style, quality and experience there," commented Tigers head coach Aaron Mauger.

"He has played at the highest level in France, in Europe and internationally, and we look forward to bringing him into the squad here."

Mermoz has previously played at Welford Road in the European Cup with both Perpignan and Toulon, scoring a solo try for Perpignan in a 38-27 defeat by Tigers during the 2008/09 season.