London, July 14 (IANS): Chelsea's young midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah has joined Watford in a five-year deal after not getting the assurance of first team football at the London club.

England Under-21 player Chalobah, who was in his final year of contract, had spent the 2012-13 season at Watford on loan.

Watford said in a statement on Thursday: "Nathaniel Chalobah has sealed a permanent return to Watford from Chelsea, the Hornets are delighted to confirm.

Chalobah has played 97 times for England at various youth levels, and he was a key part of the Under-21s' recent run to the semi-final of the European Championships.

Chalobah decided to make the move although the London club did not want to let the 22-year-old leave. 

Chalobah came to Chelsea's academy at the age of eight. He has played for Watford, Nottingham Forest, Middlesbrough, Burnley, Reading and Napoli on loan spells.

He made 15 appearances in all competitions last season for Antonio Conte-coached Chelsea which went on to win the English Premier League (EPL).