Northampton Saints have confirmed that nine players will depart Franklin's Gardens at the end of the season, including Italy international hooker Marco Manfredi and prop Tom West.

Manfredi, who joined the Gallagher Premiership leaders from Benetton in October, made only three appearances for the club—the most recent coming against Leicester Tigers in January. His limited game time reflects the fierce competition for places in a squad currently sitting four points clear at the top of the table.

West, meanwhile, has been the most featured among the departing players, racking up 34 appearances since arriving from Saracens ahead of last season. However, injuries have limited him to just 11 games in the current campaign, highlighting the physical demands of modern rugby.

The other players set to leave are Fyn Brown, Will Glister, Emeka Atuanya, and Billy Pasco, along with three promising youngsters yet to make their first-team debuts: Archie Appleby, Jack Lawrence, and Siep Walta.

Director of rugby Phil Dowson paid tribute to the professionalism of the departing squad members. "We talk a lot about connection, and about the value of every individual within our environment—the contribution of the whole squad is what underpins our performances," he said.

"Every player at Saints wants to wear the black, green and gold every weekend, and while that isn't always possible, the professionalism and commitment shown by this group has been exceptional. Every one of them has put the club first and played their part in driving standards and supporting the team, while pushing as hard as possible to develop and push their own careers forward."

Northampton return to action on 9 May for the East Midlands derby against Leicester Tigers at Welford Road, with the Saints looking to maintain their charge toward the Premiership title.