Exclusive: Porto plot new move for Brighton star Tommy Watson after deal rejected
Porto are closely monitoring Brighton winger Tommy Watson after having a loan enquiry rejected on deadline day, sources have told Football Insider.
Brighton rebuffed the Portuguese giants’ late summer window enquiry for the 19-year-old as they see him as playing a big role this season for Fabian Hurzeler’s side.
England Under-21 international Watson has yet to make his Premier League debut for Brighton, but has impressed in two Carabao Cup outings with one goal and three assists.
The youngster came off the bench to score in the Seagulls’ 6-0 win over Oxford United, before being trusted from the start against Barnsley and delivering a trio of assists as the south coast side won by the same scoreline.
Porto continue Tommy Watson pursuit after setback
Sources say that Porto are still interested in Watson and haven’t been deterred by Brighton’s rejection late on in the summer transfer window.
The Portuguese side’s surprise interest in the attacker came just months after he had completed a move to the Seagulls.
Watson’s £10million transfer from Sunderland to Brighton was agreed back in April, but the 19-year-old remained with the Black Cats until the end of the season.
The Englishman signed a four-year contract with the South Coast side, which will keep him at the Amex until the end of the 2028-29 campaign.
Watson showcased his potential at Sunderland
Watson scored a 95th-minute winner for Sunderland in their play-off final against Sheffield United, to send the Wearside club to the Premier League.
In what was his last touch for his boyhood side, the 19-year-old delivered the perfect parting gift, firing into the bottom corner to send one half of Wembley into chaos.
He joined the Black Cats at Under-9s level, and made his way through the academy ranks at the club all the way up to the senior side.
Last season, Watson showcased his undoubted potential, as he started 11 games for Le Bris’ side and contributed two goals and two assists from the left-hand side of midfield.
For more Brighton and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.