KELL WATTS has signed for League One side Cambridge United following his release from Newcastle United at the end of last month.

Watts was one of five senior players released by the Magpies in June, having progressed through Newcastle’s academy system to the first-team ranks.

The 24-year-old made one senior appearance for Newcastle, coming off the bench in a home defeat to Liverpool in the 2019-20 season, but has amassed extensive Football League experience thanks to loan spells at Stevenage, Mansfield, Plymouth, Wigan and Peterborough.

He joins a Cambridge side that finished in 18th position in League One last season, and that is managed by former Middlesbrough boss Garry Monk.

Speaking to Cambridge’s official website, Watts said: “I am buzzing to join. It’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.”

READ MORE:

Monk added: ““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."