AliousKristjaan Speakman, Sunderland’s sporting director, has commented on the imminent transfer of young talent Tommy Watson to Brighton and Hove Albion, revealing that efforts to secure a new contract with the player fell through.
The 18-year-old had been on Brighton’s radar during the latest transfer period, with the South Coast club showing strong interest.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noted that Sunderland rejected offers as high as £13m from Brighton as the February 3rd Deadline Day approached its climax. Later, journalist Alan Nixon indicated that Brighton would reignite their pursuit of the England youth international.
On Tuesday evening, Sunderland released a statement confirming an agreement for Watson to leave the Stadium of Light at season’s end, with a reported transfer fee of £11m.
Watson will stay with Sunderland until the season concludes, aiding their push for promotion to the Premier League alongside Brighton.
Once the season wraps up, he’ll begin a four-year deal at the AMEX Stadium, which includes an option for an additional year.
Despite Sunderland’s efforts to retain the promising youngster, his departure has left a bittersweet feeling among the club’s leadership. Watson debuted for Sunderland’s senior team in April 2023 against Huddersfield Town, accumulating 17 appearances, 14 of which came under manager Le Bris since his appointment in June.
The teenager has scored twice this season, both goals clinching a 2-1 win over Stoke City on December 7th amid swirling rumors about his future.
Following Brighton’s interest in January, the Northern Echo reported ongoing contract discussions between Sunderland and Watson, whose current deal ran until 2026.
After Tuesday’s announcement of his summer move, Speakman addressed the situation, commending Watson’s skills while expressing disappointment at losing such a promising asset.
“Tommy’s a highly talented young player who’s attracted several bids from Premier League clubs across the last two transfer windows,” Speakman said in a club statement. “We turned down these offers hoping to extend his contract, but sadly, that didn’t work out. We now see this deal as the best long-term solution for Sunderland AFC.
Tommy joined us at six years old, and his journey to the first team highlights the potential of our Academy of Light.”
Speakman added, “We’re proud of our part in his growth, and though we’ll be sad to see him go in June, we’re confident he’s dedicated to supporting the team through the season’s final stretch.”
Despite the significant transfer fee, some Sunderland supporters have expressed frustration with Watson, a County Durham native, with a few even suggesting he be relegated to the Under-21 squad for his remaining time at the club.
Watson recently returned from a prolonged injury and has started just one of Sunderland’s last four matches—a 1-1 draw against Preston North End—further fueling debate among fans about his role.
As Sunderland aim to secure a top-six finish and carry momentum into the play-offs, Watson’s involvement in the coming months remains a point of contention.
The team faces West Bromwich Albion next on Saturday, with former manager Tony Mowbray leading the opposition at The Hawthorns, adding intrigue to their promotion chase.
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