Exeter Chiefs sign Michele Campagnaro

As revealed by Neil Fissler in The Rugby Paper on February 8, Michele Campagnaro will leave Treviso at the end of the season to join Exeter Cheifs.

The 21-year-old Italian international centre, who has 13 Test caps to his name, will move to Devon on a two-year deal.

He said: “If you asked me three years ago about the Chiefs, I wouldn’t know what to answer about them. In the last two years, though, I followed the team a bit more closely and last season I started to support them.

“I’ve been attracted to them, especially by the style of the game imprinted by the coach. Also they have had some great results over the last year or so, so it’s all very exciting.”

“Without doubt the Premiership is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe, so I’m really interested in challenging myself and trying to do my best,” he continued.

“Right now I’m not sure how I will approach the championship, but having seen the level I know I must put in a lot of commitment and a lot of work to try and bring something positive to the team.”

Head coach Rob Baxter said: “I’m very excited and proud to be of the Chiefs. At the moment, I’m trying to do my best and perform well with my current club, but at the same time I’m very impatient to start this new experience.

“Speaking to other Italian players who have played in England, I’ve managed to get a lot of positive impressions and it gave the confidence to take on what I think will be a great experience.”

Tagged Exeter Chiefs, Italy, Michele Campagnaro