Cornwell has worked with Pete Drewett with England Under- 21s

Exeter Chiefs have signed Leicester Tigers' former England Under-21 captain Matt Cornwell.

The 23-year-old links up with director of rugby Pete Drewett again after the two worked together when Drewett was in charge of the national under-21 team.

The centre made 20 Guinness Premiership and six Heineken Cup appearances during his time at Leicester.

"Matt comes to Chiefs with a wealth of experience gained at one of the leading clubs in England," said Drewett.

"I have worked with him for a number of years while we were involved with England Under-21s when Matt's leadership undoubtedly played a significant part in winning the Grand Slam.

My aim is to get back to the Premiership and Exeter has the potential to help me do that Exeter signing Matt Cornwell

Cornwell says his ambition is to steer the Chiefs up into rugby's top flight.

"My aim is to get back to the Premiership and Exeter has the potential to help me do that," said Cornwell.

"I have already worked with Pete, fitness coach Paddy Anson and physio John Moore so I should be able to fit in quickly."