Jason White will leave Sale Sharks at the end of this season after the 30-year-old back-rower agreed a two-year deal with the French club Clermont Auvergne.

White, who captained the Sharks last season, joined Sale from Glasgow in 2003 and has made more than 100 appearances.

The former Scotland captain, who is currently out of action with a finger injury, said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Sale Sharks and I have played with some great players at the club. The highlight of my time here is undoubtedly the Guinness Premiership [title] win in 2006.

"I would like to thank the coaches Philippe [Saint-André] and Kingsley [Jones] for everything they have done for me. I want to leave Sale Sharks on a high, and I am looking to help them win some silverware before I leave. It has always been an ambition of mine to play in France, and I am looking forward to moving to Clermont in the summer."

Jones, the head coach, said: "It has been a pleasure to work with Jason over the past five years. He is a model professional and always gives us 100%. Jason will be missed, but he has a great opportunity in front of him and we wish him well and thank him for his outstanding contribution as a Sale Sharks player."