Blackpool look set to beat Championship side Hull City in the race for free agent Duncan Watmore.
The Tangerines are closing in on the signing of former Millwall and Sunderland attacker Watmore, with the 31-year-old believed to be training with the Seasiders ahead of a permanent deal. The move comes despite reported interest from Hull City, although the Tigers now appear to have pulled out of the race.
Free Agent Watmore
Watmore became a free agent this summer after his contract at Millwall expired. The experienced forward made 80 appearances for the South London club, adding to previous stints at Middlesbrough, Sunderland, Hibernian and Altrincham. Across a career that has seen him play in the Premier League and Championship, Watmore has built a reputation as a hard-working, versatile forward capable of operating anywhere across the frontline.
According to Football League World, Blackpool have acted quickly to secure his services as Steve Bruce looks to add experience to a forward line that has lost Rob Apter, Sonny Carey and Jordan Rhodes. Watmore’s arrival would offer a proven alternative alongside recent signings Emil Hansson and Malcolm Ebiowei.
While Hull City were reportedly monitoring the situation, the arrival of new head coach Sergej Jakirovic has seen the Tigers refocus their recruitment strategy. It’s believed no formal offer was submitted, with the club distancing itself from a move as Blackpool advanced negotiations.
Watmore made 60 Championship appearances for Millwall over the past two seasons and previously starred for Middlesbrough, where he registered 21 goals and seven assists in 97 games. His highest goalscoring form came earlier in his career at Altrincham, but he’s remained a dangerous option at second-tier level when fit.
Injury setbacks have been a recurring theme in his career, but when available, the former England U21 international has consistently offered energy, directness and attacking threat. A move to Bloomfield Road could now reignite his career, with Blackpool aiming for promotion back to the Championship following a ninth-place finish last season.
Writer’s View
This would be an excellent piece of business by Blackpool. Duncan Watmore brings the kind of experience and flexibility that’s crucial in League One’s long slog of a season. With doubts surrounding the readiness of Hansson and Ebiowei to lead the line, Watmore feels like the sensible insurance policy, capable of filling multiple roles and offering a goal threat from wide or central areas.
Hull City’s reported interest may never have progressed beyond the early stages, but this is still a signing that reflects Blackpool’s growing ambition under Steve Bruce. If Watmore stays fit, he could be one of the division’s shrewdest free transfers.
