Sheffield Wednesday recently saw two free agent signings sanctioned by the EFL to bolster their threadbare squad. Liam Cooper was the first to check in at SWFC, and Nathan Redmond followed.
The latter joined after training with the first-team squad alongside Duncan Watmore. The Owls knew they would only be able to sign one of the two, and it was Redmond who landed a deal.
Image courtesy of: PETER POWELL/REUTERS.
However, the winger has been cast to the sidelines by injury, and in a surprise twist, it would appear that Watmore is back at Middlewood Road. Local reporter Joe Crann stated earlier on Tuesday that the 31-year-old could feature for the U21s against Fleetwood Town, and the club have since confirmed his involvement.
Sheffield Wednesday confirmed that Watmore was in the starting XI for the Professional Development League clash with the Cod Army’s youngsters. It is not known whether he is back training with SWFC or if this is with a view to a future deal.
What has been said on Duncan Watmore’s future since Sheffield Wednesday snub?
After Sheffield Wednesday opted against signing Watmore, it appeared League One was a likely destination.
Both Stockport County and Rotherham United had been credited with interest in the former Sunderland and Middlesbrough man. Watmore was reported to have spent a spell training with the Hatters, but no deal has come from it as of yet.
Image courtesy of: ANDREW COULDRIDGE/REUTERS.
It was said that further League One interest had emerged after his spell at SWFC. He proved his fitness in his training stint at Middlewood Road and coaches were impressed with his attitude too.
He would likely make a solid impact at League One level, but this latest development would indicate the Sheffield Wednesday door is not necessarily closed on Watmore.
Duncan Watmore’s Championship stats
Could a deal be revived as Sheffield Wednesday takeover stalls?
Sheffield Wednesday had hoped to name a preferred bidder in early December, allowing them to push on with a takeover and potentially get new owners through the door for January. Then, there would be scope for loan signings.
However, with bids deemed enough to grant exclusivity, no preferred bidder has been named at this stage. The season might be a write off, but that doesn’t mean SWFC don’t need help in the transfer market.
If no new owners are in place though, the Owls may have no choice but to turn back to the free agents market. Perhaps this is why Watmore has been in action for the U21s, potentially bringing a deal for his services back to the table.