Caleb Wiley is the latest young American talent to make his move abroad.
Wiley has joined English Premier League side Chelsea in a permanent deal from Atlanta United. The Five Stripes are reportedly set to receive just under $11 million from Chelsea as part of the deal.
Wiley, 19, has signed a six-year contract with the Blues until June 2030, which includes a club option for an additional year. He reportedly will join Ligue 1 side Strasbourg for the 2024-25 season.
“Caleb epitomizes the pathway that we envisioned when we started this club,” Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra said. “Born and raised in Atlanta, he joined our Academy at 11 years old, played for ATL UTD 2 and went on to earn every step in his path up to signing as a Homegrown. Over that time, he debuted for the U.S. Men’s National Team and was chosen to represent our country at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Now he can continue his career at a top club in Europe. We wish Caleb the best in this next challenge of his career and look forward to following his journey. For our club moving forward, we’re continuing our efforts to immediately reinvest in the team during the Summer Transfer Window.”
He was recently named to the U.S. men’s Olympic team ahead of the upcoming Summer Olympics. He debuted for the USMNT last year and overall has earned two senior international caps.
A 5-feet-10 defender, Wiley debuted for Atlanta United in 2022 and has since totaled 80 MLS appearances, six goals, and eight assists. He has started in all 21 of his league appearances in 2024.
Wiley is the latest Five Stripes player to depart Atlanta this summer, joining Giorgos Giakoumakis and Thiago Almada on that list.
Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League last season while Strasbourg finished 13th in Ligue 1.
