Edinburgh fly-half Charlie Savala has made his season-long loan to Northampton Saints permanent.

He made 33 appearances in a three-year spell at Edinburgh having joined the club from Australian Rugby League side Sydney Roosters in October 2020. 

However, his opportunities were limited after Ben Healy arrived in the capital last summer. 

Savala - who qualifies for both Scotland and England - joined Saints on a season-long loan in November and will now make the switch permanent. 

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt said:  “We’d like to thank Charlie for his contributions to Edinburgh Rugby. He’s a good player who showed great commitment while here in Edinburgh.

Scotland Rugby News: Charlie Savala (right) was called into the Scotland squad for the 2023 Six NationsCharlie Savala (right) was called into the Scotland squad for the 2023 Six Nations (Image: SNS)

“However, with a core group of young Scottish stand-offs competing for the 10 jersey – Ben [Healy] and Cammy [Scott] in the senior squad and then Isaac [Coates] coming through our academy – this move allows Charlie the opportunity to secure more game time."

Savala, meanwhile, hopes the move will further his development. He will compete for the Saints' number 10 jersey with England international Fin Smith. 

He also joins Scotland duo Rory Hutchinson and Elliot Millar Mills at the club. 

READ MORE: Scotland prop Elliot Millar Mills signs new Northampton deal

The 23-year-old said: "When the opportunity first came about to join Saints it was something out of the ordinary.

“I was ready for a change and was eager for the opportunity to develop and prove myself in a new environment. I’ve really enjoyed the change of scene – both from a living perspective and a rugby perspective.

“The coaching here is first class, the squad we’ve got is really competitive, and I feel like I’m improving in the environment every day.”

Northampton Director of Rugby Phil Dowson added: “We’ve been impressed with Charlie since he came in on loan in November. 

“He’s come down here, got some consistency into his training, and a few appearances under his belt.

Scotland Rugby News: Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Phil DowsonNorthampton Saints Director of Rugby Phil Dowson (Image: PA)

“We see a lot of potential in Charlie, and with some more time as a Saint we think he’s got a huge opportunity to develop.

"He’s a good man to have in the group, but most importantly, Charlie’s a very good person with great character and we’re looking forward to seeing him push on."