Chelsea midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah is closing in on a permanent move to Watford, according to the London Evening Standard.

What's the story?

The England Under-21 international is already familiar with Watford having spent the 2012-13 season on loan at Vicarage Road.

The London Evening Standard claims that Chalobah is keen to return to the club where he made 42 appearances four seasons ago.

It is believed that Chelsea intended to offer the midfielder a new contract, but his desire to play regular first-team football has led to him looking elsewhere.

The report claims that Watford are confident of landing Chalobah's signature for £5m, but they may also agree to Chelsea's request of a buy-back clause.

Is this the right move?

From Chalobah's perspective yes, because he is at an age where he needs stability and the chance to play regularly at a competitive level.

With Chelsea aiming to defend their Premier League title and challenge in the Champions League, is it unlikely that the young midfielder would earn much game time.

Even though joining Watford would be a step down in terms of status, it is a step up with regards to development.

Chalobah will want to make a name for himself and try to push into the senior England squad, and he is only going to achieve that if he plays regularly.

From Chelsea's perspective, it is disappointing to lose a promising talent, but they only have themselves to blame.

The West London outfit continue to flood the first team with established stars, and while it is normal for a club of Chelsea's stature to do so, they are stifling their academy products in the process.

The silver lining for the Blues, though, is that a buy-back clause will give them first option if Chalobah succeeds at Watford.

WATCH THE LATEST 442OONS VIDEO BELOW...