Newcastle United defender agrees two-year contract as exit confirmed

Kelland Watts will join League One side Cambridge United when his contract at Newcastle United officially expires later this month. -

The 24-year-old is among five seniors players, including Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett, Loris Karius and Jeff Hendrick leaving the Magpies on June 30. Watts has signed a two-year deal at Cambridge to become their first signing of the summer.

“I am buzzing to join,” said Watts, I”t’s time for me to make the next step in my career and from everything I’ve heard and learned about Cambridge United, I am convinced that this is the right place for me. It's a big challenge for me but one I am ready for.

“The gaffer has some great plans in place and I can’t wait to hit the ground running and join up with the rest of the boys for pre-season.”

The U’s are managed by former Swansea City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough boss Garry Monk. On securing Watts, the 45-year-old said: I am really pleased to welcome Kell to the Club. He is a great character, a fantastic footballer and he will add a lot of quality and competition to the team.

"I am looking forward to working with him and I am sure our supporters will offer him a warm welcome as he begins a new chapter in his career."

Watts joined Newcastle’s academy aged eight before going on to make his Premier League debut against Liverpool in 2020. He already has forged a solid career in EFL, making 100 appearances across loan spells at Stevenage, Mansfield Town, Plymouth Argyle, Wigan Athletic and Peterborough United.

Commenting on Watts’ exit, United boss Eddie Howe said: “It’s also a significant moment for Kell, who has been with the club since he was eight. Kell is a top professional with an outstanding attitude, and his next club will be incredibly fortunate to have him. I wish the players and their families the very best for the future.”