Woodman's capture is a big coup for the Sharks

The World Cup winner, 27, is joined at Edgeley Park by Tongan international centre John Payne, who has agreed a one-year deal with the club.

"Trevor is a class player who will fit in perfectly with my plans at Sale Sharks," said director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre.

"Trevor's signing also gives us extra strength in depth in the front five."

The arrival of Woodman and Payne follows hot on the heels of international duo Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe and Sebastien Bruno.

When we were first alerted to Trevor's possible availability we resolved to do everything we could to secure his services Sale chief executive officer Niels de Vos

Lobbe, who can play lock or number eight, has won 45 caps for Argentina and joins from French club Castres.

Beziers forward Bruno played once for France during the 2002 Six Nations championship.

Commenting on the signing of Woodman, Sale chief executive officer Niels de Vos said: "When we were first alerted to Trevor's possible availability we resolved to do everything we could to secure his services."

On the acquisition of Payne, Saint-Andre said: "John is a highly competitive centre who was vice-captain of his country in last autumn's Rugby World Cup.

"He is young and was very keen to join Sale Sharks."