Watford's Transfer Strategy: A Hint of a Sale for Nestory Irankunda?
Watford's latest move on Nestory Irankunda's transfer has seemingly dropped a hint over his future. The Hornets' stance on the 20-year-old winger could be shifting, suggesting they may be preparing for a possible sale in the near future.
What happened?
According to Sky Sports, Watford have "bought back" 10 per cent of the sell-on clause Bayern Munich had in the deal. This move seems to indicate that Watford are anticipating a transfer, and the German champions' buy-back clause has expired.
Why it matters for Watford
If Watford are not looking to part ways with Irankunda, why would they look to get a bigger slice of the pie should a sale come their way this summer? The area Nestory Irankunda would instantly outrank every Everton player as a deal wanted.
What comes next?
Watford's star winger is a player in high demand, with Goodison News sharing details of Everton's interest in Irankunda, as well as the competition over a deal. Hull City, Sporting CP, and Celta Vigo have all been knocked back in their attempts to seal a transfer. According to Sky Sports, all three outfits had £10million bids rejected by Watford. Additionally, two of those sides have not come back in for Irankunda ever since that rejection.
As Watford prepare for their next fixture against Bristol City (at home, 2027-02-20), the club's transfer strategy will be under scrutiny. With the Championship table standing at 16th, 57 points, 14W-15D-17L from 46 games, recent form LLLLL, and 53 goals scored, 65 conceded (-12 goal difference), the Hornets will need to make smart decisions to stay competitive.
In the title race, Watford are 38 points behind leaders Coventry. The club's owner, Gino Pozzo, will be under pressure to make the right calls to ensure the team's success.
In related news, Nestory Irankunda recently starred at the 2026 World Cup for Australia, where he netted one goal throughout the tournament. However, things did not quite work out for the Aussie in Germany, and he was later sold to Watford. Now, it seems the Championship club are hinting towards a sale for the winger arriving soon amid their latest talks with Bayern Munich.
