West Ham, Derby County and Leicester City among six clubs keen on Sunderland play-off hero | OneFootball

Tommy Watson is attracting interest from West Bromwich Albion, Leicester City, Hull City, West Ham United and Derby County, with Preston North End also possible, as Brighton consider the winger’s next step this summer, Sunderland Echo understands.

The 20-year-old and his representatives must choose a loan that suits his development. Options span League One, the Championship and the Premier League, and a Championship switch is currently viewed as likeliest.

Brighton signed Watson from Sunderland in 2025 in a deal worth around £10 million and gave him a long-term contract. They rate him highly, but the next phase is seen as needing regular senior football.

He made 10 appearances for Brighton in the first half of 2025-26, scoring on debut off the bench in a 6-0 EFL Cup win over Oxford United. With Premier League minutes limited, he joined Millwall on loan in February, reuniting with Alex Neil, and played 12 times.

Those close to Watson want him playing consistently, so any move will be judged on guaranteed opportunities to build rhythm and confidence. Competition for places at Brighton is fierce and could intensify before the window closes.

His breakthrough came in 2024-25, including first league goals in a 2-1 win over Stoke City. He then struck the stoppage-time winner against Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley, sealing Sunderland’s 2-1 comeback and promotion.

Source: Sunderland Echo