Day will provide further strength to Northampton's front five

Northampton Saints have signed forward Christian Day from Stade Francais as they continue rebuilding for their return to the Guinness Premiership.

Day, a 24-year-old 6ft 6in lock, will arrive at Franklin's Gardens in July.

The former England Under-21 captain joined the French club on a short-term deal in March after spending seven seasons at Sale Sharks.

"Northampton are the sort of club that should be challenging in the top half of the table," said Day.

Day collected winners' medals in both the Guinness Premiership (2006) and European Challenge Cup (2005) and is looking forward to helping Saints re-establish themselves in English rugby's top flight.

"The Premiership is regarded as the toughest league in the world. Every club has world-class players and each week will be a battle," he said.

He has experience of knowing what it takes to win and he will be learning a great deal from playing with Stade Francais Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder

"It won't be easy but it is a long-term goal that I am eager to get to grips with. I've played against Northampton a few times in the Premiership.

"It is a great place to play and the team has great support. I've also worked with Jim Mallinder before and am looking forward to playing for him again."

"Christian is a young player who has a lot of potential but who will bring a lot to our squad next season," said Saints director of rugby Mallinder.

"He has experience of knowing what it takes to win and he will be learning a great deal from playing with Stade Francais.

"He is also eager to meet a new challenge at Franklin's Gardens and is motivated to bring success to the Saints over the next few years."