AliousBrighton Set to Fast-Track £10m Teen Sensation Tommy Watson into First-Team Action Following Sunderland Exit
Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly planning to waste no time integrating Tommy Watson into their senior squad following his high-profile departure from Sunderland.
Watson, a promising winger developed by Sunderland’s academy, is expected to leave the club imminently after Brighton finally succeeded in luring him away—months after a failed January bid. Brighton are said to be spending around £10 million to secure the youngster’s services.
Although Watson has only made 23 first-team appearances for Sunderland—12 as a substitute—Brighton see enough potential in the 18-year-old to bypass their usual development route. According to *The Athletic*, rather than easing him into the club via the Under-21 squad, the Seagulls plan to place Watson directly into contention for a first-team role next season. This decision will, however, depend on how he performs during pre-season under incoming manager Fabian Hürzeler.
Despite limited top-level experience, Brighton view Watson as a strong addition to their already youthful attacking lineup, reflecting the high regard Sunderland coaches have long held for the teenager.
His exit hasn’t been universally well received by Black Cats supporters, with some voicing frustration over his decision to move before the season’s conclusion. But former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini defended the move during a BBC Radio Newcastle interview. He emphasized that such decisions are a natural part of modern football and noted that Sunderland are financially benefiting from the deal. Gabbiadini also hinted at the possibility of Watson returning on loan, adding that the door may not be closed on his future with the Wearsiders.
As Watson prepares to begin this new chapter, Brighton fans can expect to see the highly-rated teenager involved at senior level much sooner than expected.
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