The Blues academy graduate brings his 11-year association with his boyhood club to an end as he makes his move to the Championship side. The BBC reported that the fee agreed for the youngster was for an initial £1.2m rising to potentially £2m with add-ons, although West Brom have kept the fee undisclosed.
Gilchrist made 17 senior appearances for Chelsea in the 2023/24 season, where he netted one goal, a great strike in a victory over Everton. Speaking to the club website he explained how he pushed for a move as it would allow him regular football that the West London side could not offer.
“I’m really excited to get going and show everyone what I can do.
“I played against Albion when I was on loan at Sheffield United last season, and both games were really good encounters.
“I remember the atmospheres being really exciting in both matches and I know Albion have some really talented players who I’m excited to work with now I’m here.
“I’m 21 and I want to play regular senior football. I feel like I’ll have a good chance of doing that here if I work hard and continue to develop.”
Gilchrist spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Sheffield United, featuring 32 times as the Blades reached the play-off final. Chelsea now hold the Premier League record after selling £264.4M worth of players - not including potential add-ons in what has been a very busy window for manager Enzo Maresca.