Watford poised to finalise transfer move for Chelsea player | OneFootball

Watford are closing in on the signing of Caleb Wiley on loan from Chelsea for the rest of the season.

Watford are closing in on the signing of Caleb Wiley on loan from Chelsea as they look to strengthen their options at left-back before the February 3rd transfer deadline.

It has been a relatively quiet window for the Hornets, who currently sit ninth in the Championship, with Tom Cleverley’s side just three points away from the play-off places.

Yet, successive defeats and speculation surrounding the boss’ future means Watford have somewhat lost momentum, but it seems the club are working on new signings to improve the group.

Watford in talks to sign Caleb Wiley from Chelsea

That’s after reporter Tom Bogert revealed that Watford are ‘nearing’ a deal for Wiley, who is contracted to Chelsea but has spent the campaign so far with Strasbourg.

“Sources: Watford nearing deal to sign USMNT left back Caleb Wiley on loan from Chelsea. Wiley, 20, was on loan at Strasbourg the first half of the season.”

The youngster failed to establish himself as a regular in France, with Wiley making just six appearances in Ligue 1 this season, although he has been out with a shoulder issue since November, although he is seemingly now ready to return.

Caleb Wiley could be a shrewd addition for Watford

Even though his time with Strasbourg didn’t go to plan, this is still a smart potential deal for Watford.

Firstly, it’s an area of the pitch they need to strengthen, as there is a reliance on Yasser Larouci particularly after Ken Sema departed this week.

So, Wiley will feel he is capable of forcing his way into the first XI under Cleverley, and he does arrive with a good pedigree.

Prior to joining Chelsea, who he is yet to play for, Wiley came through the ranks of Atlanta United.

During his time in MLS, Wiley made over 75 appearances, which included making his debut as a 17-year-old, and it didn’t take long for him to become a regular fixture in the side.

After that, international recognition followed, with Chelsea seeing enough to warrant them spending £8.5m on the player.

Of course, the Londoners will view him as an investment, but it shows the talent is there, and Wiley will have ambitions of playing for the Blues, and representing his country, further down the line.

So, this could be the perfect move for the player as he looks to get back playing after a difficult spell with Strasbourg, and Watford will hope that Wiley’s arrival could have a positive impact on the side.