Former Scarlets No 8 Carwyn Tuipulotu is set to sign for Exeter Chiefs, WalesOnline has learnt. Tuipulotu has been without a club since getting released by French Top 14 outfit Pau and had been training with the Dragons during pre-season. But the 25-year-old has been snapped up by Exeter in a deal believed to be worth around £80,000 a year.
Career so far
Tuipulotu is a former Wales age-grade international who was once heralded as the next big thing but has so far struggled to fulfil those early expectations. He made 48 appearances for the Scarlets before leaving for France. Having been a regular in the Top 14 upon his arrival, playing nine times after joining late in the campaign, his second season in France saw his minutes dwindle due to injury.
He managed just five appearances for the club last season with three of those being the Champions Cup. One of those was against former club Scarlets, with Tuipulotu crossing the whitewash.
Moving to Exeter
Upon leaving Pau this summer, he said: "Thank you to my teammates, staff, supporters and everyone involved with this special club. I leave with memories for life and brothers for life. The next chapter is still unknown, but I’m hopeful for what’s ahead."
Tuipulotu is a decent carrier who will hope to take his game to another level at Exeter. He will join a strong contingent of Welsh players at the Chiefs which include Kane James and Dafydd Jenkins. Tuipulotu has previously spoken of his desire to represent Wales while he also qualifies for Tonga.
