Exeter Chiefs have signed Welsh back row Carwyn Tuipulotu on a short-term deal.
RUCK understands that Tuipulotu, who started the campaign as a free agent, has joined the Devon club.
The 25-year-old featured for Dragons during pre-season but was not offered a contract, with the Welsh side instead bringing in Northland back row Terrell Peita this summer.
A former Wales age-grade international, Tuipulotu made 48 appearances for Scarlets. He featured for Dragons in the second half of their 81-12 victory over English Champ side Hartpury at the start of September.
Tuipulotu came through the Newcastle Falcons academy and was part of the Welsh Exiles, before joining the Scarlets academy. He made his senior debut against Leinster in 2021 before signing his first professional contract.
In four years at Scarlets, he made 48 appearances for the club.
The No.8 later spent time with Llanelli RFC and Carmarthen Quins before joining Saracens as short-term injury cover in 2025.
He subsequently moved to French side Section Paloise, initially as injury cover.
Tuipulotu made just five appearances in all competitions for Pau last season, scoring two tries.
He has represented Wales at U16, U18 and U20 level and is also related to several international players.
His cousins include England internationals Mako and Billy Vunipola, Wales No.8 Taulupe Faletau and Wales Women international Sisilia Tuipulotu.
Exeter will hope Tuipulotu can strengthen their back row after they suffered a 45-24 home defeat to Gloucester in the opening round of PREM Rugby.
Rob Baxter's side reached the PREM Rugby final last season, where they were beaten by Northampton Saints. It was the first time Exeter had lost a final in the competition.
Tuipulotu will join fellow Welshman Kane James in the Chiefs' back row. James made his Wales debut during this summer's Nations Championship after previously representing England at age-grade level.
