WATSON TO LEAVE

It has been confirmed that Tommy Watson will leave Sunderland to join Brighton and Hove Albion in June 2025.

The 18-year-old will spend the remainder of the season at the Stadium of Light before completing a move to the Amex Stadium for a significant undisclosed fee. Today, Fabrizio Romano reported a "fee in the region of £10m". It has also been reported that SAFC have secured a hefty sell-on clause.

Watson has made 14 senior appearances this campaign and scored twice, whilst registering five goals and three assists in six Premier League 2 outings. An Academy of Light graduate, the winger has also represented England at Under-18 level.

Tommy had 18 months left on his current contract and with an extension appearing unlikely, the club have cashed in on the in-demand teenager.

Kristjaan Speakman said: “Tommy’s a very talented young player, who’s been subject to multiple offers from Premier League Clubs over the past two windows, and it’s been well-documented that we’ve declined these approaches with the intent of extending his contract. Unfortunately, this has not been possible, and we now believe this agreement represents the best long-term outcome for Sunderland AFC. Tommy first joined our Club at age six and his rise to the first team demonstrates what is possible at the Academy of Light. We are proud of the role we have played in his development and although we will be disappointed to see him depart in June, we know he’s fully committed to helping the team throughout the final stages of the season.”