Saracens have recruited Samoa lock Fa'atiga Lemalu from Japanese Super Rugby side the Sunwolves on a short-term deal.
Lemalu has joined the Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup holders with immediate effect after George Kruis was ruled out for up to 12 weeks with a knee injury.
Saracens are also missing Maro Itoje to England duty for the entire RBS 6 Nations, while Australia's Will Skelton has completed his short-term contract at Allianz Park, leaving them short of second row options.
"Fa'atiga is an international lock forward entering the prime of his career," director of rugby Mark McCall said.
"With the unfortunate injury to George Kruis we are very happy to have the opportunity to bring in a player of his ability into the set-up."
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