Free agent forward Duncan Watmore is now the subject of firm interest from both Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday as the race to secure his signature intensifies.
Rotherham United have entered the running as their injury crisis deepens, adding fresh competition for a player who has trained with two EFL clubs already this season. The 31 year old has been without a club since departing Millwall at the end of the previous campaign, but his experience and versatility have kept him on the radar of several managers.
Rotherham’s Striker Shortage Drives Move for Immediate Reinforcement
With four senior forwards sidelined and only Jordan Hugill currently able to start, although managing an ankle issue, Rotherham United have been forced to explore the free agent market. Their latest 1-1 draw away at Reading highlighted the scale of the problem. Hugill was withdrawn at half time, leaving midfielder Josh Benson to operate in a more advanced role before youngster Ar’Jany Martha replaced him for the second half.
3605. Duncan WATMORE
Forward – 08.03.94 – ENG
Prem Debut:
15/08/2015 (SUNDERLAND vs. Norwich City, L 3-1 – sub 70 mins)Prem Clubs:
Sunderland (13-17)Prem Apps: 37
Prem Goals: 3 pic.twitter.com/Nn4p0S8HqQ— Premier League Players (@premlgeplayers) July 30, 2025
Boss Matt Hamshaw has been clear that any incoming signing must be capable of contributing immediately, which puts Duncan Watmore high on the shortlist. The forward has spent recent weeks training with professional squads, including League One side Stockport County, although manager Dave Challinor confirmed they would not be pursuing a deal. Watmore then trained with Sheffield Wednesday, who remain interested but are restricted to one final free agent signing under league rules.
With Sam Nombe, Joshua Kayode, Martin Sherif and Kion Etete all unavailable, the Millers have only one functioning striker heading into the busy winter schedule. The club’s eight-game unbeaten run has lifted them away from immediate danger, but Hamshaw is pushing to bring in additional firepower before January.
Sheffield Wednesday Still in the Mix as Competition Intensifies
Sheffield Wednesday have monitored Duncan Watmore for several weeks, seeing him as a valuable addition to a squad that has endured its own struggles in the Championship. The former Sunderland forward has been praised for his work rate and ability to play wide or centrally, qualities that appeal to a staff keen to add flexible attacking options.
Duncan Watmore forgot he wasn’t a Middlesbrough player anymore after getting subbed off for Millwall 🤣🤣
pic.twitter.com/c2C1g0nXpB— Second Tier podcast (@secondtierpod) August 6, 2023
However, Wednesday’s limited capacity to add further free agents has opened the door for Rotherham United to move ahead with a more concrete proposal. Reports indicate that the Millers are prepared to offer terms quickly, hoping to strike before the Owls finalise a decision.
Watmore’s recent involvement with two EFL clubs suggests that fitness will not be a major concern, which further strengthens Rotherham’s case. His previous experience at Millwall, Middlesbrough and Sunderland has made him one of the most seasoned forwards currently available outside the transfer window.
As the January window approaches, both Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday face urgent attacking needs. The Millers’ situation is more severe, with no immediate return expected for four of their senior strikers. Wednesday, meanwhile, are balancing squad limitations and league restrictions as they try to evaluate the best use of their final available free agent slot.
With interest growing and opportunities limited, a decision on Duncan Watmore is expected soon, as both clubs aim to strengthen their attacking options ahead of a congested winter programme.
