Watford forward Jorge Hurtado has completed a season-long loan move to Colombian side Millonarios, with the deal including an option to make the transfer permanent.
The 21-year-old departs Vicarage Road after a series of loan spells and limited first-team involvement.
Hurtado Leaves Hornets for Millonarios Opportunity
Millonarios confirmed the signing of Hurtado on Monday afternoon, ending speculation over the Colombian striker’s immediate future. Although still under contract at Watford, the loan agreement includes a purchase clause that could see him leave the club permanently in 2026.
Hurtado arrived at Vicarage Road in 2023 from Real Cartagena on a six-year deal but has made just one first-team appearance for the Hornets. That cameo came in the FA Cup third round against Chesterfield in January 2024, when he assisted Tom Dele-Bashiru’s winning goal in a 2–1 victory.
Since signing, he has spent time on loan with Independiente Medellin, New York Red Bulls and most recently Gillingham, where a knee injury brought his spell to a premature end after only three matches. Last season, he moved to Greek outfit PAOK, impressing with 11 goals and two assists in 20 appearances for their B team.
The forward has been part of Colombia’s Under-20 set-up and remains highly regarded in his homeland. A return to South America with one of the continent’s biggest clubs offers a fresh chance to relaunch his career.
Watford boss Paulo Pezzolano has continued to reshape the squad ahead of the new Championship season, and Hurtado was not believed to be in his immediate plans. The move also clears room in the attacking department, where options like Mileta Rajovic and Kwadwo Baah remain in contention for regular minutes.
While Hurtado’s time in England has been hampered by fitness setbacks and limited game time, his raw ability and versatility have kept him on the radar of several clubs. A strong season with Millonarios could reignite his trajectory and lead to a permanent exit from the English game.
Writer’s View
Jorge Hurtado’s move to Millonarios feels like the right decision for both player and club. Watford took a chance on a young South American talent, but he has never really found a foothold in the first team. A mix of injuries and competition for places meant his time at Vicarage Road stalled before it ever truly began. In contrast, his spell at PAOK showed that he can be effective in the right environment.
Returning to Colombia should allow him to rebuild confidence and momentum. For Watford, it frees up a squad space and could potentially secure a sale down the line. If Hurtado thrives back home, this might yet be a good move for all involved.
