Watford's transfer woes continue as Nestory Irankunda is set to leave the club for Sporting CP, with West Ham also showing interest in the Australian winger. The 20-year-old joined Watford on a permanent deal for £2million last summer, but looks set to depart Vicarage Road already. Nuno Espirito Santo's side are in need of new wingers and pace after the departure of Crysencio Summerville, which delivered a major cash boost. Irankunda has been viewed as an ideal candidate to come to the London Stadium, with interest in the Aussie across Europe. The former Bayern Munich youngster played and scored for Australia at the World Cup earlier this summer, which has only added to his value.
What happened?
West Ham were credited with interest in Irankunda early in the transfer window, but they faced competition from multiple Premier League sides, including Hull City and Everton. Sporting CP have put their foot on the gas more than any other interested side, but have been met with resistance from Watford. The winger scored just four goals for the Hornets last season, but displayed incredible ball-striking ability from distance, as well as the ability to pull off an acrobatic finish, too.
Why it matters for Watford
The impending sale of Irankunda is described as a trading model success by Sky Sports, with Bayern Munich due £7m from the deal. Nuno could still sign a winger from the Championship, possibly even before West Ham's start to the league campaign. The Hornets are currently 16th in the Championship, 57 points, 14W-15D-17L from 46 games, with a recent form of LLLLL. They have scored 53 goals this season, but conceded 65, leaving them 38 points behind leaders Coventry.
What comes next?
The transfer window is set to close soon, and it remains to be seen whether Watford will be able to sign a replacement for Irankunda. Nuno could still look to the Championship for a new winger, but it remains to be seen who will be available. The Hornets' next fixture is against Bristol City at home on 20th February 2027, and they will be looking to bounce back from their recent poor form.
