London, England – Chelsea Football Club has secured a significant deal by signing 19-year-old US national team left-back Caleb Wiley for a transfer fee of approximately £8.5m. Wiley, who hails from Atlanta, will join Chelsea on a six-year contract and is expected to be sent on loan to Strasbourg, a Ligue 1 club under the same ownership group as Chelsea, for the upcoming season.
Wiley’s journey to Chelsea began in Atlanta’s academy, where he honed his skills and eventually earned a spot in the first-team squad in 2022. His impressive performances led to a senior debut for the USMNT against Mexico last year, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
Atlanta United’s technical director, Carlos Bocanegra, praised Wiley’s development, highlighting his progression from the club’s academy to representing his country at the highest level. Wiley’s move to Chelsea represents a significant milestone in his career, offering him the opportunity to compete at a top European club.
During his time with Atlanta’s first-team, Wiley made a notable impact, registering six goals and seven assists in 77 MLS matches. His consistent performances caught the attention of Chelsea, who have been actively recruiting young talents under new manager Enzo Maresca. Wiley’s signing aligns with Chelsea’s strategy of securing promising players on long-term contracts, following the footsteps of other recent acquisitions like Omari Kellyman, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, and Renato Veiga.
As Wiley joins Chelsea’s ranks, he will add depth and versatility to the squad, bringing a fresh perspective and energy to the team. His transition to European football represents a new chapter in his career, filled with opportunities for growth and development as he continues to make strides in the sport.