The 29-year-old has been with Edinburgh for the last three years but follows current team-mate Geoff Cross in moving to the Madejski for next season.

Lancaster-born Cox started out in the Sale Sharks Academy before going on to make 63 appearances for the Aviva Premiership side.

After joining Edinburgh he won the 2012 Best Newcomer award and 2013 Iron Man award at the players' awards night.

Although he is an English Qualified Player, he will soon qualify for Scotland on residency and has been linked with an international call-up.

London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith said: “Sean Cox is a very experienced player with well over 100 first class matches under his belt. He’s an outstanding line-out forward with a high work rate and offers plenty around the park.

"He’s bought into what we want to achieve and will add real steel in the pack.”

Commenting on his decision to sign for the Exiles, Cox said: “I'm delighted to be joining London Irish next season. After speaking with Brian regarding the vision and ambition of the club I'm looking forward to the challenge and being back in the premiership. I've had some incredible highlights at Edinburgh and wish to thank the club for the last three seasons.”