Exeter Chiefs sign Archie McArthur

Exeter Chiefs have confirmed the signing of former England Under-20s prop Archie McArthur from Gloucester Rugby ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Archie McArthur Joins Exeter Chiefs

McArthur moves to Exeter after making 20 appearances for Gloucester since joining the Cherry and Whites from Wasps before the 2022/23 season.

The 23-year-old loosehead prop said Exeter’s strong culture, supporter base and reputation for developing players made the move appealing.

“Chiefs is a club with a strong culture, an amazing following and a reputation for developing players, which all really appealed to me.

“From speaking with the coaches and seeing the ambition of the club, it felt like the right place to continue my development and challenge myself at the highest level.

“I want to contribute as much as I can to the team’s success, keep improving my game and help the club compete for silverware. I’m excited to get started and connect with the lads.”

Exeter Chiefs Add Front-Row Depth

McArthur also spent time dual-registered with Hartpury, where he made more than 25 appearances and scored two tries in Champ Rugby.

Born in Reading, he studied at City of Oxford College and came through the Wasps academy pathway. He made three senior appearances for Wasps before later being recognised at England age-grade level.

Rob Baxter Backs McArthur Development

McArthur represented England Under-18s before being selected for England Under-20s at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. He will now link up again with former England U20 teammates Greg Fisilau and Joe Bailey at Exeter.

Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter said McArthur had impressed in matches against Exeter and highlighted his movement around the field, defence and ability on the ball.

“Archie is a young loosehead who we’re pleased to bring to the club. He’s played against us a few times interestingly, so we watched those games in detail and saw him doing very well.

“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."