Rugby Transfers: Jamie Ritchie’s Perpignan exit confirmed, Scotland international makes decision on future and Ireland ace on the move
Jamie Ritchie (right) and Glen Young (left) feature in the latest round-up of rugby transfers
Jamie Ritchie has taken another step towards a return to Scotland this summer, fellow Scottish Test ace Glen Young has made a call on his future and Munster have bolstered their squad with an Ireland-capped prop.
Check out our latest transfer news and rumours update:
Jamie Ritchie’s Perpignan exit confirmed
Scotland international Jamie Ritchie has seen his exit from Perpignan confirmed, with the Top 14 side confirming he will return home at the end of the season.
The back-rower has been heavily linked with a move to United Rugby Championship (URC) leaders Glasgow Warriors next year, just one year after leaving rivals Edinburgh to head to France.
Ritchie has made 14 appearances for USAP since joining this season, but has already played his last game after suffering a season-ending injury in their meeting with Clermont Auvergne last weekend.
Commenting on his exit from Perpignan, he said: “I have been fully committed to USAP since my arrival, but I have to go home to be with my children. The welcome I received from the fans and the club has been incredible. Thank you all for your support and encouragement.
“USAP will always hold a very special place in my heart. I will continue to support the team because it belongs in the Top 14. The Catalan passion, the fans, and the club will remain a very fond memory.
“A huge thank you.”
Club president, François Rivière, added: “Jamie is an exemplary player and captain. He has left his mark on the club through his commitment and leadership.
“We respect his personal choice, which is essential for his work-life balance. We will continue to follow and support him. Perhaps a new opportunity will arise one day.”
Edinburgh tie down Scotland man
Scotland international Glen Young has re-committed his future to Edinburgh after signing a deal until the end of next season.
The 31-year-old, who boasts four Test caps for Scotland, becomes the latest forward to pen an extension with the Capital outfit, following the likes of Marshall Sykes and Grant Gilchrist in doing so.
Young arrived at Edinburgh in 2021, following spells in England with Newcastle and Harlequins, and is edging towards the 70-appearance mark at the time of writing.
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Commenting on his new deal, Young said: “This has been one of my best seasons in an Edinburgh jersey, and I genuinely feel like there’s more to come. I feel fit, I feel confident, and I want to keep building on that.
“One of the things I really value is being one of the more experienced guys in the squad. I take that seriously – if I can help the younger players develop and make the whole group better, then I see that as a big part of what I’m here to do.
“I can play across the second row and into the back row, and I think my versatility is something that gives the coaches options. I’m a team-first person – whatever the squad needs from me, I’ll give it.
“I love this club. Edinburgh has become home, and the chance to pull on this jersey for another season is something I’m really excited about.”
Edinburgh head coach, Sean Everitt, added: “Glen has had a really strong season. He’s the type of player who makes your squad better – not just through what he does on the pitch, but through the standards he sets every day in training.
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“His work rate is relentless and his toughness makes him a real handful. At the lineout he’s technically excellent, and that experience at set-piece is invaluable – particularly for the younger locks coming through around him.
“He can operate across multiple positions in the tight five, which gives us real flexibility in how we build a squad. Glen is still very much a big player for Edinburgh Rugby, and we’re delighted he’s staying.”
Ireland prop on the move
Munster have secured the services of Ireland international prop Jack Aungier on a two-year deal from the start of next season.
The tighthead joins the Limerick-based side from Irish rivals Connacht, and has tallied 100 appearances for the province at the time of writing. He also made his Ireland debut against Georgia last summer, and has featured for both Ireland A and Emerging Ireland too.
Commenting on joining Munster, Aungier said: “I’m really excited to be joining Munster Rugby next season. This squad has a brilliant blend of young talent and experienced leaders, and I can’t wait to be part of it.
“I’m looking forward to getting started, contributing to the team, and making an impact on and off the field.”
Munster general manager, Ian Costello, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Jack to Munster Rugby. He brings a wealth of experience and his quality is reflected in his call up to the Ireland squad last summer.
“He’s a powerful scrummager, dynamic ball carrier and has a range of skills which we think will add massive value to Munster Rugby.”
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