Sunderland make Tommy Watson decision after £13m Brighton offer – Fabrizio Romano
Sunderland have turned down a £13million bid from Brighton for Tommy Watson meaning a deal is off, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The journalist reported via X (3 February) that despite Brighton making a new, higher bid for Watson, the Black Cats have rejected this.
Discussions did take place about Simon Adingra going on loan the other way as part of the deal but any agreement regarding either player is now off the table.
Tommy Watson staying put at Sunderland
Brighton had previously put forward a bid of £8.5million plus add-ons for Watson [Craig Hope, 3 February], which was rejected by Sunderland, and they clearly were keen to gain his services as they offered an improved bid.
However, at this late stage in the window, the Black Cats know they can’t replace him and therefore, you can understand their eagerness to try and strike a deal that would see a Brighton player head the other way.
That being said, the Seagulls rejected a £20million offer from Marseille for their winger, meaning they were always unlikely to let him leave the Amex Stadium during the winter window.
Regis Le Bris will certainly not be disappointed, though, as he has kept hold of his highly rated 18-year-old, who will no doubt have a big part to play in the remainder of the campaign when back to full fitness.
Watson has two goals from 10 appearances and if he can stay fit, he will surely help Sunderland in their push towards promotion to the top flight.
In other Sunderland news, Don Goodman released a fresh transfer admission for the Wearsiders.
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