Du Plessis could make his Sarries debut on Sunday against Newcastle

Saracens have beefed up their push for the Guinness Premiership title by signing South African front row forward Petrus Du Plessis from Nottingham.

The 27-year-old, signed from Sedgley Park 10 months ago, had been lined up to join Saracens next season.

But following injuries to Carlos Nieto and Tom Mercey, the tight-head prop has now signed with immediate effect.

"He'll obviously be missed but it's a great chance for him," said Nottingham director of rugby Glenn Delaney.

"Parra has worked very hard this year and he deserves this opportunity.

"He's had a fantastic season with us and as a result he has been picked up by a Premiership club.

We have watched Petrus for some time, and we are delighted to have secured his services Saracens rugby director Brendan Venter

"We've had guys like Tim Taylor and Tim Molenaar and now Parra picked up by Premiership clubs and it's testament to the quality of the Championship.

"We're playing some great rugby here, which is why guys like that get given these chances.

"Last season he was playing for Sedgley Park, who ended up getting relegated. But he has come on such a long way with us and will now make that next step."

Du Plessis, who is English-qualified, has linked up with the Saracens squad preparing for Sunday's Guinness Premiership clash at home to Newcastle.

"We have watched Petrus for some time, and we are delighted to have secured his services," said Saracens rugby director Brendan Venter.

Du Plessis scored his only try in 22 appearances for Nottingham in his final game - Sunday's 20-9 play-off victory against Exeter.

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