Watford are closing in on the signing of left-back Marc Bola following his departure from Turkish side Samsunspor.
The 27-year-old will join the Championship outfit on a free transfer this summer, with a contract reportedly agreed until 2027 and the option of a further year.
Watford Land Experienced Bola on Free Transfer Deal
According to journalist Santi Aouna, an agreement has been reached between Bola and Watford, paving the way for the defender’s return to English football after a year abroad. Samsunspor have confirmed they will not activate an extension clause in his contract, allowing Bola to leave as a free agent.
Born in Greenwich, Bola is a product of the Arsenal Academy. He joined the Gunners at the age of 13 after impressing in Sunday league football and rose through the ranks to sign his first professional contract in 2016. During his time at Arsenal, he featured regularly for their U23s and went on loan to Notts County and Bristol Rovers to gain senior experience.
🚨EXCL: 🟡⚫️🐝 #Championship |
🔐 Agreement reached between Marc Bola and Watford
✍️ The left back will sign a deal valid until June 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣7️⃣ with option until 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣8️⃣@footmercato pic.twitter.com/LtRjjhUJ3o
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) June 5, 2025
Released by Arsenal in 2018, Bola joined Blackpool on a permanent basis, where he established himself as a reliable full-back in League One. His performances caught the attention of Middlesbrough, who secured his services in 2019. Although opportunities were initially limited on Teesside, Bola returned to Blackpool on loan and then became a more regular figure at Boro under successive managers.
In total, he made 80 appearances for Middlesbrough, scoring once, before making the move to Turkish Süper Lig newcomers Samsunspor in July 2023. Bola featured 33 times across all competitions during the 2024–25 campaign as the club battled to retain top-flight status.
Now, he’s set for a new challenge at Vicarage Road under head coach Paulo Pezzolano. The Uruguayan tactician, who took charge in April, will be keen to reshape his squad as Watford look to challenge for promotion in the upcoming Championship season.
The addition of Bola offers versatility and experience, with the player comfortable operating as both a traditional full-back and wing-back. His pace and ability to recover defensively will be key assets in Pezzolano’s system.
Writer’s View
This looks like a sensible and cost-effective move from Watford. Marc Bola is an experienced and proven Championship performer with strong defensive instincts and the athleticism to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
After steady spells at Middlesbrough and a year of regular football in Turkey, he arrives match-sharp and eager to make an impact. With the Hornets rebuilding under Paulo Pezzolano, free signings like Bola—who bring both quality and character—could prove crucial in their push for a top-six finish.
