Rising star of English rugby, Henry Arundell, has agreed to sign for Racing 92, according to reports coming out of France. Arundell had initially been linked with a move to Bath Rugby, after news of London Irish’s suspension from the Gallagher Premiership and subsequent administration, led to a fire sale of their squad. Northampton Saints has since confirmed the signing of Exiles backrow star Tom Pearson, who was also linked with a move to Bath, along with London Irish lock Chunya Munga and loosehead prop Tarek Haffar.
Despite speaking with Bath’s head of rugby, Johann van Graan, Arundell has signed a deal with Racing 92, with the club’s superior budget being cited as a key factor in his decision. Racing, led by former England head coach Stuart Lancaster next season, is also reportedly seeking to lure England international fly-half Marcus Smith away from Harlequins. The club is said to be offering a deal reported to be worth around half a million euros a season, as they search for a replacement for Bath-bound Finn Russell.
Arundell has been signed by Racing as a replacement for departing South African full-back Warrick Gelant. French publication L’Equipe wrote about the move, stating, ‘An agreement has been reached between the different parties. Everything is now closed according to our information.’ Currently in camp with England preparing for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, Arundell is one of nine Bath players there.
The news comes as Belgium head coach, Guillaume Ajac, is set to join Bath as a defence coach. Having already worked with Bath’s director of rugby, Stuart Hooper, at London Welsh, Ajac’s addition will bring a wealth of experience to the team. Bath’s next game is set to be against Sale Sharks on September 18th.
