Transfer
Everton eye £17m bid for Watford star Nestory Irankunda after Sporting CP offer
Everton may match Sporting CP's £17m bid for Watford's Nestory Irankunda after the Championship club rejected the Portuguese side's offer. The 20-year-old winger scored 4 goals and assisted 4 more last season.
Everton know Watford's asking price for Nestory Irankunda after Sporting CP bid Everton have been given a clear path to sign Watford winger Nestory Irankunda after the Championship club rejected a £17m bid from Sporting CP. The 20-year-old Australia international emerged as a summer target for the Toffees earlier this month. Irankunda scored four goals and assisted four more for Watford in the Championship last season, helping the Hornets finish 16th with 57 points from 46 games (14W-15D-17L). ## What happened? Portuguese outlet Record reported that Sporting CP lodged a bid worth €15m upfront and €5m in add-ons (£17m total) for Irankunda. Watford rejected the offer, meaning Everton now know the starting point for negotiations. Irankunda, who spent time in Bayern Munich's youth setup, is a right-winger known for his pace and creativity. He also scored for Australia in their 2-0 World Cup win over Turkiye. ## Why it matters for Watford With Watford ending last season in 16th place (57 pts, 14W-15D-17L) and suffering five consecutive losses, including a 4-0 defeat to Coventry on May 2, 2026, selling Irankunda could provide a financial boost. However, losing a key attacking player could weaken their squad ahead of the new campaign. ## What comes next? Everton, along with newly promoted Hull City, are now in the race for Irankunda. The Toffees must decide whether the £17m price tag is justified for a player still developing in the Championship. Irankunda is currently back at Watford after a three-week break following Australia's World Cup campaign. His future remains uncertain, but Watford fans will hope he stays to help improve their recent form (0W-0D-5L in their last five matches).