Watford Blocked Player’s Summer Exit: Increased Salary Offered

Pierre Dwomoh has admitted that Watford rejected approaches from Konyaspor and Cercle Brugge in the summer transfer window, despite the lure of a lucrative contract in Turkey.

The 21-year-old midfielder, who joined the Hornets from Royal Antwerp in 2024, explained in an interview with Het Nieuwsblad that he was tempted by the opportunity but was ultimately prevented from leaving by Watford owner Gino Pozzo.

Konyaspor interest rebuffed

Konyaspor had reportedly offered a substantial salary alongside promises of making Dwomoh the focal point of their squad as they target Champions League qualification. Cercle Brugge also expressed interest, but neither deal came to fruition as Watford made it clear they were not prepared to sanction his exit.

“Konyaspor wanted to build a team around me, offered me a substantial salary, and are aiming for a Champions League spot. That’ll make everyone think twice. But I respect that owner Gino Pozzo and the Watford family didn’t want to let me go. I’m in a good place here in London.”

Dwomoh insisted he remains content at Vicarage Road, acknowledging that the refusal to sell underlined the club’s belief in his potential. He remains under contract until 2028, giving Watford long-term security over his future.

Background and ambitions

A graduate of Genk’s academy, Dwomoh left Belgium in 2021 for Royal Antwerp but struggled to cement a role, leading to loan spells at SC Braga, KV Oostende and RWD Molenbeek. His permanent switch to Watford provided a reset, and he has quickly established himself as a first-team regular in the Championship.

The Saint-Lucian-born midfielder has already spoken of his dream to reach the Premier League, something he hopes to achieve by helping Watford climb from the lower reaches of the table. The Hornets have endured a poor start, sitting 21st after six games, but Dwomoh believes the current project gives him the best chance to fulfil his ambitions.

“At Watford, I’m one step away from my ultimate dream. I know where the club wants me. The fact that I wasn’t allowed to make a transfer this summer shows that Watford still believes in me.”

Writer’s View

Dwomoh’s revelation highlights both the financial power of overseas suitors and Watford’s determination to keep hold of their brightest prospects. While the temptation of Champions League football and higher wages in Turkey was real, Pozzo’s stance sends a message of trust and expectation.

If Dwomoh continues to develop, his value to Watford could increase significantly, and keeping him at Vicarage Road may prove crucial in stabilising their season and fuelling a long-term push for promotion.

Gary Hutchinson is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Real EFL, which he launched in 2018 to offer dedicated coverage of the English Football League. A writer for over 20 years, Gary has contributed to Sky Sports and the Lincolnshire Echo, while also authoring Suited and Booted. He also runs The Stacey West and possesses a background in iGaming content strategy and English football betting. Passionate about football journalism, Gary continues to develop The Real EFL into a key authority in the EFL space.

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