Charnley joins code-hoppers in Union
Charnley, 24, has played 152 times for Wigan, scoring 148 tries and kicking 94 goals, and has helped the club to two Super League Grand Final triumphs and two Challenge Cups.
But despite being offered a new contract by the Warriors, he has elected to take up a new challenge in union.
"Since joining the club seven years ago, the team and the fans have been like a second family to me," Charnley said in a statement released by Wigan.
"Shaun Wane has been an amazing coach, mentor and friend and I thank him and all the players for the past seven years.
"I've had the most amazing times at the club. The 2013 double will live long in the memory when I look back on my career.
"I will forever be supporting Wigan Warriors, and stay involved in the local community as I have so many good memories, friends and family here."
Charnley follows in the footsteps of Jason Robinson, who left Wigan for Sale in 2000 and went on to become an England international, winning 51 caps and helping the country to victory at the 2003 World Cup.
"Josh is a great signing for us," said Sale Director of Rugby Steve Diamond.
"The last big signing we made from Wigan back in 2000 was Jason Robinson and what impact he had. I am sure Josh will fit in perfectly with us at Sale Sharks and look forward to him joining us in the autumn."
Charnley was the Super League's leading try-scorer in both 2012 and 2013 and coach Wane said he would be sorry to see him go.
"Having been involved with the Wigan Warriors first team since Josh made his debut in 2010, it is with a heavy heart that I will see him leave," Wane said.
Agence France-Presse
