Sale flanker Jason White will leave the club at the end of the season to join Clermont Auvergne on a two-year-deal.
The 30-year-old Scotland international said the chance to play and live in France was one he could not turn down.
"It has always been an ambition of mine to play in France and I am looking forward to moving to Clermont in the summer," he said.
"I want to leave Sale on a high and am looking to helping them win some silverware before I leave."
The former Scotland captain joined Sale from Glasgow in 2003 and has played over 100 games for the club.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Sale and have played with some great players," he added.
"The highlight of my time here is undoubtedly the Guinness Premiership win in 2006, after topping the table.
606: DEBATE"I would like to thank the coaches Philippe Saint-Andre and Kingsley Jones for everything they have done for me."
Jones, Sale's head coach, said he supported White's decision after the player had given such great service to the club.
"It's been a pleasure to work with Jason over the past five years, he's a model professional and always gives us 100%," he added.
"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."
Sale chief executive James Jennings was disappointed to lose the flanker but backed White to go out on a high.
"We will all be sad to see Jason leave the club," he said.
"He has made a fantastic contribution over the years and was an excellent club captain, we wish him well in the future and hope that in his last season at Sharks he will collect another winner's medal".
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