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Chelsea fans think Ben Chilwell's days might be numbered amid the signing of United States international Caleb Wiley. The 19-year-old American left-back has arrived at Stamford Bridge from Atlanta United.
Wiley has joined the Blues in a reported £8.5 million deal but he's expected to go on loan to their sister club Strasbourg in Ligue 1, per The Guardian. He will first represent the United States at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Chelsea continue to prioritize signing teenage prospects, which has been Blueco's vision since their ownership started in May 2022. Wiley is the third U21 signing the club have made this summer.
Wiley's stock rose in the MLS after he debuted in February 2022 at the age of 17. He made 85 appearances across competitions for Atlanta, posting six goals and seven assists. He can play at left-back or further forward on the left flank.
Gonzalo Pineda spoke glowingly of Wiley after watching him score in The Five Stripes' 2-1 loss to Orlando City last July. He delved into the two-cap USMNT international's best attributes, which seems to be his pace (via 90min):
"Yes, for Caleb it’s [the goal] amazing. I think it was a good play overall... I think Caleb with his speed, his power and decision, he is going to get a lot of those. So, I am happy for him, he did a tremendous game."
Wiley might not appear for Chelsea for a year amid an expected loan at Strasbourg. That said, the Stamford Bridge faithful think they've found a gem, and one fan suggested Chilwell may be looking over his shoulder:
"Chilwell is in trouble."
Another fan was pleased to sign the American teenager:
"A great talent we have here."
More fans chimed in on X (formerly Twitter), and one welcomed Wiley with open arms:
"Welcome to the best club in London."
"FINALLYYYYY LETS GOOO."
One fan perhaps jumped the gun:
"We are winning the EPL next season. Bookmark this tweet."
Another fan echoed those sentiments:
"Chelsea is winning the Premier League this season."
Chelsea are reportedly considering selling Ben Chilwell amid constant fitness issues
Chilwell, 27, has endured a difficult period in his career over recent years as he continuously deals with injury problems. He missed 27 games across competitions with hamstring and knee issues.
The Athletic reports that Chelsea are weighing up selling Chilwell if they receive a suitable offer. The Blues could look to offload the former Leicester City left-back's wages as he's among the highest earners at Stamford Bridge.
Chilwell has three years left on his contract, but his future is increasingly uncertain. He's unlikely to be Enzo Maresca's first-choice left-back last season after Marc Cucurella's stunning Euro 2024 campaign with winners Spain.
