The 23-year-old played for the Peterborough Saxons and coached Northampton University's side.

BBC: American football tributes to Jatinder Singh Dhesi

The 23-year-old made 85 appearances for Gloucester, scoring 570 points, and has also represented England Saxons.

BBC: London Irish sign fly-half Lamb

Another option for Johnson at lock could be to promote Sale's 20-year-old James Gaskell to the elite squad next month, after his call-up to the Saxons.

BBC: Charlie Hodgson