Sporting CP Targets Watford Winger Irankunda in €20 Million Push

Portuguese club Sporting CP is reportedly intensifying efforts to acquire Australian international Nestory Irankunda from English side Watford. According to reports from Portuguese media Record and A Bola, Sporting has submitted a formal proposal worth approximately €20 million. The package is understood to include a €15 million base fee accompanied by €5 million in potential add-ons.

This interest follows a rejection of an initial bid, with Sporting CP preparing an improved offer for the 20-year-old attacker. Irankunda’s market value has appreciated significantly following a strong performance at the recent FIFA World Cup, where he scored in Australia’s 2-0 victory over Türkiye. Prior to his stint in England, the winger was associated with Bayern Munich, where he was considered a high-potential prospect.

A transfer to Lisbon would provide Irankunda with Champions League exposure next season, aligning with Sporting’s reputation for developing young talent. Additionally, the move carries financial implications for his former employers. It is widely reported that Bayern Munich retained a buyback clause and secured a substantial sell-on percentage when Irankunda transferred to Watford last summer.

News of the advanced transfer talks was first brought to wider attention by Fox Corporation. The media company, currently trading with a market capitalization of over $24.1 billion, operates extensive sports broadcasting divisions that cover international football markets. Fox stock was up 0.26% in recent trading, reflecting broader market activity in the communication services sector.

What to watch

• Official confirmation from Watford or Sporting CP regarding the acceptance of a revised transfer fee.
• Details on the specific sell-on clauses retained by Bayern Munich and their financial impact.
• Sporting CP’s Champions League squad registration deadlines for the upcoming season.

Source: original release