Leicester Tigers have announced the signing of France international centre Maxime Mermoz from Toulon for the rest of this season.
Leicester have lost international centres Manu Tuilagi and Matt Toomua to long-term injuries, but they have now captured 30-year-old Mermoz after receiving official French Rugby Federation clearance.
Mermoz has won 35 caps and landed French league titles with Toulouse, Perpignan and Toulon. He also helped Toulon to European Cup triumphs in 2013 and 2014.
Leicester head coach Aaron Mauger said: "We are missing two big players in our midfield, and we're very happy to be able to bring in a player of Maxime's style, quality and experience there.
"He has played at the highest level in France, in Europe and internationally, and we look forward to bringing him into the squad."