The Exeter Chiefs have confirmed the acquisition of 23-year-old loosehead prop Archie McArthur from Gloucester Rugby as they prepare for the 2026/27 season. The move strengthens the Chiefs’ front‑row resources and brings an England age-grade international into Rob Baxter’s squad.
Background and pedigree
McArthur made 20 appearances for Gloucester since joining them ahead of the 2022/23 season. Earlier in his career he came through the Wasps academy and made three senior appearances for Wasps. He also spent time dual-registered with Hartpury, where he turned out in more than 25 matches and scored two tries in Championship Rugby. Internationally, McArthur represented England at Under‑18 and Under‑20 level, including selection for the England Under‑20s at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa.
Why Exeter made the move
Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter highlighted McArthur’s movement around the field, his defensive work and his ball skills, while noting there is still work to do on set‑piece play — an area the club believes it can help develop.
“His strengths are his around the field movement, his defence and his ability on the ball. He’s got a bit of work to do around set piece, but that’s something we feel we can help him develop.”
From the player’s perspective, the attraction of Exeter lies in the club culture and its record of player development. McArthur described the Chiefs as a club with an “amazing following” and a place where he can continue his development and “challenge” himself at the highest level.
“Chiefs is a club with a strong culture, an amazing following and a reputation for developing players, which all really appealed to me.”
What this means for Exeter
For supporters in Exeter, the signing adds depth to a squad that competes on multiple fronts domestically and in Europe. McArthur’s arrival reunites him with former England Under‑20 teammates already at the club and gives the coaching team another young front‑row option to develop through Exeter’s pathways.
- Age: 23
- Previous clubs: Wasps, Gloucester, Hartpury (dual registration)
- International experience: England U18s and U20s (2023 World Rugby U20 Championship)
| Club | Appearances | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gloucester | 20 | Joined ahead of 2022/23 season |
| Hartpury (dual registration) | More than 25 | 2 tries in Championship Rugby |
| Wasps | 3 | Senior appearances before move to Gloucester |
Rob Baxter and the Chiefs coaching staff will now integrate McArthur into pre‑season preparations, with supporters keen to see how quickly he adapts to Exeter’s style and where he fits into matchday selection as the club looks to maintain competitive standards.
