20-year-old Ashton had been expected to arrive at Franklin’s Gardens at the start of December following the end of the Super League season. However Wigan Warriors’ agreement to release him from his contract early means that the full-back’s three-year contract with the Saints can begin immediately.

Wigan’s decision has delighted Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder.

“Chris is a high-quality, young, English player,” he said. “Over the past couple of seasons his potential as a rugby player has been clear. However switching codes will be a steep learning curve for him. Union is a vastly different game than league and it will take time for Chris to adapt.

“At only 20 years of age Chris has time on his side. I’m sure that he will make the transition successfully and make a significant impact on the 15-a-side version of the game.”

“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Ashton. “There are plenty of differences between league and union and plenty of new skills for me to learn.

“I loved playing for Wigan and would like to thank everyone at the JJB. But it’s time to move on. Northampton is a big club, Jim, Dorian and Paul are excellent coaches and I’m looking forward to learning from them and the Saints players.”