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Brighton agree to sign Sunderland’s Tommy Watson, loan deal to be made permanent when transfer window opens
Tommy Watson is set to complete a permanent move to Brighton in the summer when the transfer window opens.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Brighton signed 18-year-old forward Tommy Watson from Sunderland on loan on the January transfer deadline day. The Premier League club has now confirmed an agreement for a permanent transfer in the summer. Watson will remain with the Championship side for the rest of the season and will sign a long-term contract with Brighton on July 1 when the transfer window officially opens.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Watson joined Sunderland’s youth system at the age of six and made his first-team debut in March 2023 against Huddersfield Town during a Championship match. This season, he has made 17 first-team appearances in all competitions, including two goals in the Championship. Watson gained attention for his standout performance in December 2024, when he scored two goals in a 2-1 victory over Stoke City. Despite an injury-hit campaign, he has shown potential that attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
Brighton agreed on an initial fee in the region of £10 million for the forward, which includes a sell-on clause that could benefit Sunderland in the future. The deal, which runs until June 2029 with an option for a fifth year, marks another strategic signing for Brighton, known for nurturing young talent.
Watson will join Brighton’s squad during their pre-season preparations in July, alongside other young signings. The only delay will be for Ireland youth international goalkeeper Mark Carey, who has international commitments during that period.
WHAT NEXT FOR BRIGHTON?
Brighton return to Premier League action on the weekend, where they play Leicester at home, who is fighting to stay afloat in the top division in England. Brighton is currently 9th, but only 4 points behind 6th place Aston Villa, which is the last team currently qualifying for European football next season. There are 7 games left in this Premier League season.
