He was part of Saints’ Prem title-winning team of 2014 and captained the club to victory in the 2024 campaign, making his final appearance in the final victory over Bath at Twickenham.
Lawes has made 39 appearances in two seasons for Brive.
“When I decided I wanted to come back to the Prem there were only a couple of teams I would have signed for,” he added.
“Obviously Saints because of my history, but Sale were the other one because my wife’s family is all from Cheshire.
“I’m really excited to be joining Sale. I’ve been out of the Prem now for a couple of years and I just want to finish my career playing at a the top level.
“I think Sale have got a brilliant squad so hopefully I can add to that and we’ll see what we can do next year.”
Sale’s director of rugby Alex Sanderson described Lawes’ arrival as a “sign of intent” from the owners to put the club “on the map”.
“He wants to bring people with him and lead from the front and I love that. Plus he’s captained England and knows what it’s like to play and win on the biggest stage,” Sanderson said.
“I can’t wait to see him train and play with us, but from a coaching perspective I’m really looking forward to working with someone I’ve heard so many good things about.”
