Newcastle United defender Kell Watts is set to join Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan deal that will become permanent next summer, according to reporter Craig Hope.
Watts spent a successful spell with Wigan Athletic during the 2021/22 campaign. He was a key player for the Latics as they won promotion to the Championship, playing 35 times for the club across all competitions.
Unfortunately, last season was a tough one for the 23-year-old centre-back. Peterborough United brought Watts in on a season-long loan deal in the hope that he could help fire another side to promotion but he was hampered by injuries, limiting him to 11 appearances.
Watts now has a year left on his Newcastle United contract but rumours have circulated over a possible return to the DW.
Now, reporter Hope has said on Twitter that the left-sided defender is set to reunite with the Latics. He’ll join on loan for the season initially but when his deal expires next summer, the move will become permanent.
Little bit of outgoing NUFC news…
➡️ Defender Kelland Watts (23) is set to join Wigan on a loan deal that will become permanent when his contract expires next summer
🐝 We could also see movement on Jamal Lewis to Watford on loan— Craig Hope (@CraigHope_DM) July 18, 2023
A big signing
While Watts saw last season disrupted by injury, a return to Wigan Athletic could be the perfect way for him to get back on track. He’s already a popular figure among supporters and if he can get back to his best, there’s no reason why he can’t play a big part in another big season with the club.
At 23, he’s still got plenty of time to come good on his potential and settling at a club he knows he’ll be staying at for more than a season could help get the best out of him.
It seems like the right time for him to move on from Newcastle United and with Shaun Maloney looking to build a squad capable of fighting for promotion, Watts will be a welcome addition to the defensive ranks at Wigan Athletic.
