USMNT captain Tyler Adams close to Chelsea move

Just when USMNT supporters thought they were done with Chelsea, they pull us right back in.

Chelsea is close to acquiring USMNT captain and midfielder Tyler Adams from Championship side Leeds United. Chelsea has activated a $25M release clause in the American’s contract that became active following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Adams, 24, joined Leeds United last summer for $25M following four seasons with RB Leipzig. Adams’ leadership and industrious play quickly saw him emerge as a crucial piece of Jesse Marsch’s side. As clubs like Chelsea began to take notice, Adams suffered a hamstring injury that required surgery. His recovery caused him to miss the rest of the season following 26 bright appearances for Leeds. Without Adams, Leeds would suffer the humiliation of relegation to the Championship.

Prior to his move to Europe, Adams made his name in MLS. Coming up through the New York Red Bulls academy and making 81 first-team appearances.

At international level, Adams has been a stalwart for the USMNT since his 2017 debut going on to make 36 appearances and being named captain for the 2022 World Cup.

Chelsea has been on the lookout for a number 6, and in Adams, they are getting Premier League-proven one. Adams excels at shielding the backline, sniffing out loose balls, and winning duels. While he currently stands as Chelsea’s only true defensive midfielder, he will likely be a squad player if Chelsea completes their deal for Moisés Caicedo.