Watford have been approached by Sporting over a possible deal for Nestory Irankunda, according to reports from Portugal.
The Championship club signed the 20-year-old from Bayern Munich for €3m (£2.6m) last summer. One year later, they are reportedly asking for €15m (£13m) to consider selling him.
Portuguese newspaper Record reports that Sporting have already started talks over the Australian international.
That represents a significant step forward from the initial information provided by Pedro Sousa, executive director of CM Rádio. He had first named Irankunda as one of the options on Sporting’s shortlist.
Record later confirmed the interest and added that Sporting have now made their first approaches for the player.
Watford already rejected PL offer
Nestory Irankunda has also attracted interest from Hull City, who have been promoted to the Premier League.
According to Record, Watford have already rejected a €10m (£8.7m) offer from Hull for the winger. But the Hornets are instead demanding €15m (£13m) for his sporting rights.
That position would give Sporting a clear indication of what is required to progress negotiations. It also shows Watford are prepared to resist offers below their valuation.
Irankunda remains under contract at Vicarage Road until 2030, which strengthens Watford’s position.
The club would also make a substantial profit if a deal were completed at the amount being requested. They paid Bayern Munich €3m (£2.6m) for him only a year ago.
Why Sporting want Irankunda
Nestory Irankunda fits the profile Sporting have established for their attacking recruitment.
The Portuguese champions want a versatile forward who can operate on both wings. Irankunda can also play as a number ten or as a second striker.
Sporting believe his combination of age, quality and price could make him an asset with further development and resale potential.
The winger was born in Tanzania and developed at Adelaide United before moving to Bayern Munich in 2024. He later spent time on loan with Grasshoppers in Switzerland before ending his association with Bayern and joining Watford.
During his first season in England, Irankunda registered four goals and four assists across 42 appearances. He also was one of Australia’s top performers at the 2026 World Cup. The forward scored in their 2-0 group-stage victory over Turkey.
Sporting’s interest has therefore moved beyond internal discussion, with the Lisbon club now trying to establish the conditions for a deal. And Watford’s €15m (£13m) demand suggest they will only consider a sale on their terms.
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