Sharks coach Jim Mallinder is convinced that the 28-year-old, who can also play fly-half and kick goals, will provide useful cover for Bryan Redpath and Charlie Hodgson.

Walshe played for Harlequins from 1995 to 1999 before moving to Saracens, and won four England A caps.

He played 18 times for the club this season, but his opportunities were limited with the return to fitness of Kyran Bracken.

"Nick has a wealth of experience and the good thing about him is that he can play equally well at fly-half and played against Sale in the number 10 shirt last season.

"He is also a goalkicker so will provide cover for both Bryan Redpath and Charlie Hodgson.

"We always worried about what would have happened had Charlie suffered an injury that kept him sidelined for any length of time."