Sheffield Wednesday have reportedly made contact with ex-Millwall attacker Duncan Watmore following his release from The Den this summer, according to Alan Nixon.
The Owls are seeking reinforcements after a poor summer transfer window as the club battles to maintain stability under owner Dejphon Chansiri.
A Proven Option
Watmore began his professional career at Altrincham, where he scored 14 goals in a breakout season in 2012–13 before sealing a move to Sunderland. His versatility as a forward, winger, or attacking midfielder has allowed him to adapt across various systems, with his play widely recognised for its directness and skill on the ball.
Despite a serious knee injury in 2016, Watmore showed resilience, making 71 league appearances for Sunderland with eight goals before moving across the North East to Middlesbrough in 2020. There, he scored 31 goals in 97 matches in all competitions, including a standout nine-goal season in 2020–21, earning Championship Player of the Month.
From January 2023 until his release this summer, Watmore played for Millwall, scoring 12 goals in 80 league games, including five goals in six matches last season. He made 26 appearances for Millwall last term before his release.
A Quiet Summer
Sheffield Wednesday’s summer transfer window was hampered by significant hurdles, including EFL restrictions that severely limited signings, with only Ethan Horvath from Cardiff as an emergency goalkeeper and Harry Amass on loan from Manchester United as their only outfield addition. The club suffered major losses in their forward line, with both Josh Windass joining Wrexham and Michael Smith moving to Preston North End after contract terminations, further depleting their attacking options amid ongoing financial and ownership issues with Dejphon Chansiri.
Unsurprisingly, manager Henrik Pedersen has turned to the club’s youngsters, notably 20-year-old striker Bailey Cadamarteri, who has impressed with a goal in four starts this season despite a prior injury during his loan at Lincoln City last term. Cadamarteri’s emergence, alongside others like Reece Johnson, offers fans hope, but inexperience in the squad has contributed to a winless start.
Duncan Watmore’s potential signing could prove vital for the Owls this season. At 31, he boasts a wealth of Championship experience—over 300 appearances across Sunderland, Middlesbrough, and Millwall—combined with his ability to play across various forward roles, providing much-needed leadership and stability to guide this young squad through a pivotal campaign.
Writer’s View
Duncan Watmore’s signing is a wise move for Sheffield Wednesday on a free, offering crucial experience and versatility to a struggling side. Yet, with a depleted squad and no wins, questions remain about whether it’s sufficient to avoid the drop this season.
