Born in Rotorua, Tupai played in five games for Samoa including replacement appearances against England and Scotland during last month’s autumn internationals.

Tupai, aged 31, weighs in at just over 18 stone and is 6ft 4ins tall.

Director of rugby Budge Pountney said: “Paul has come to help here at Northampton and with it he brings a hard edge, physicality and a great deal of experience. I am sure he will become a great member of Northampton Saints with his honest attitude towards playing rugby. We look forward to welcoming him here.”