We are excited to announce the signing of highly-rated midfielder Jake Richards on a permanent contract following the completion of his scholarship with fellow Sky Bet League One club Exeter City.
The 17-year-old arrives in Bedfordshire with a growing reputation having already made 32 appearances for the Grecians since his senior debut, which came on his 16th birthday in an August 2023 Carabao Cup tie against Crawley.
The Devonian had joined the St James Park outfit as an Under-12 and had been included in a first team pre-season friendly against Mousehole at the age of 15.
He has two senior goals to his name, the first in an EFL Trophy game against Spurs U21s, and second in League One against Bristol Rovers on Boxing Day last year as he starred on the scoresheet alongside another recent Town recruit from the Grecians, Milli Alli.
Jake picked up the Exeter City Supporters’ Trust Young Player of the Season, as well as being named LFE League One Apprentice of the Season at the 2025 EFL Awards.
Exeter will be due a training compensation fee with Jake being under the age of 24 and having been offered a professional contract by the Grecians.
Manager Matt Bloomfield said: “Jake played against us twice last year at Wycombe and although he’s a young boy, he’s already gained great experience, so he is ready to come in and hopefully affect the first team group as soon as possible.
“He’s someone who can accept the ball in tight areas, he can wriggle out of tight situations and he can play in midfield, attacking midfield or behind the striker in the ten, so he has nice versatility about him and good dynamic movements.
“It’s a big move for him and we need to give him time to settle, but he’s been in training with us this week and he already feels like he’s at home with the boys. We want to progress his career and help develop him, and he’s a really exciting signing for the football club.”
Jake, who turns 18 on August 8th, completed his move with his family present at The Brache and he said: “I’m really happy to get it over the line and to sign my first professional contract for such a big club as Luton.
“It’s a major thing for me and I’m really looking forward to what this season and the next few hold in store.
“It will be new for me being a long way from home, but I’m looking forward to new surroundings, meeting new people and a new life away from home.
“The staff and all the boys have been really good with me, they’ve made me feel welcome from day one and have taken me under their wing. They’ve treated me as if I’ve been here for ages and I already feel a part of the club.”
Welcome to Kenilworth Road, Jake!
