Former Wigan Athletic loanee Kell Watts has been released by Premier League giants Newcastle United following the expiry of his contract, as confirmed via the club’s retained list.

The 24-year-old finished the 2023/24 campaign with Wigan Athletic in League One in what was his second stint with the football club but has now become a free agent for the first time in his career.

How did Watts fair at Wigan last season?

After joining the football club on loan in July, Watts immediately began with a flourish in League One but that was cut short in December when he suffered an injury which ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign.

In total, Watts made 19 appearances in all competitions for the football club, featuring as a centre-back and left-back during that time, starting in 13 of those matches but didn’t manage to find the back of the net.

What could Watts bring to his next side?

Despite being 24, Watts has spent his entire career out on loan from Newcastle United, featuring for several EFL sides. The list includes Peterborough United, Plymouth Argyle, Mansfield Town and Stevenage as well as his two stints at Wigan Athletic.

In total, Watts has made over 140 appearances in the EFL and would provide additional depth and versatility to whichever side manages to land him this summer.

Where could he go next?

Given 91 of his 140 first-team appearances on loan have been in League One, there is a strong possibility that Watts is likely to want to stick in the third tier this summer.

Four of Watts’ five former clubs are going to be in League One next season which could allow for a return at one of them, unless he wants to stay north which would narrow down his list of options or see a drop into League Two.