(Credit: Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Tue 19 May 2026 10:35, UK

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Brighton are planning to send Tommy Watson back out on loan next season following his spell with Millwall, sources have told Football Insider.

The 20-year-old spent the second half of the season on loan with the South London club and narrowly missed out on promotion after losing against Hull in the playoffs.

Watson endured a disappointing spell at Millwall, starting just two games, and has not convinced Brighton that he is ready to make his mark under Fabian Hurzeler.

As a result, they are now seeking to send him on loan to a new club next season where he will continue his development amid big plans for his long-term future.

There is believed to be no shortage of interest in the winger, who can play on both sides of the front three, with Championship clubs keeping a close eye on his situation.

Could Brighton accept new offers for Tommy Watson?

Football Insider exclusively revealed in January that Brighton were open to letting Watson leave, before he was eventually sent to Millwall for the second half of the season.

The winger joined the Seagulls from Sunderland in a £10million deal last summer, but has failed to make his mark at the Amex despite their initial high hopes.

He turned in some impressive performances for the Seagulls before his loan move, including picking up three assists in one game against Barnsley in the League Cup.

Brighton are still confident that the winger will play a long-term role in their plans, but feel he needs to play regular football and will not get that under Hurzeler.

They are now prepared to offer his services out amid growing interest in his situation, and hope his next spell will suit him better than his move to Millwall.

Which other clubs are interested in signing Watson?

Despite what proved to be a difficult spell at The Den, there is no shortage of interest in Watson, with clubs in the Championship and across Europe interested.

Birmingham City have most recently been linked with a move for the winger, but they are far from alone in their pursuit, as interest in his signature remains strong.

Football Insider revealed earlier this season that Porto have been interested in Watson after missing out on a permanent deal to sign him before his move to Brighton.

The Portuguese giants have been long-term admirers of the winger since his time at Sunderland, and had looked to explore a loan deal in the January window.

While no formal offer arrived and Brighton sent him out to the Championship, there is a feeling that their interest may have lingered and a fresh move could be on.