Derby County are leading the race for Brighton’s Tommy Watson in a £20m deal, but the left winger’s loan spell at Millwall has left questions over his fitness and future. With the Rams 8th in the Championship (69 pts, 20W-9D-17L), 26 points behind leaders Coventry, and 67 goals scored this season, manager Wayne Rooney’s squad needs attacking firepower.

Who is Tommy Watson?

Watson, 20, burst onto the scene with Sunderland last season, scoring the stoppage-time winner in their Premier League play-off final. Brighton snapped him up for £10m—but injuries derailed his debut campaign. A preseason knock kept him sidelined for early Premier League games, though he scored in a 6-0 League Cup win over Oxford before netting his first Premier League assist in a 6-0 League Cup thrashing of Newport County.

Why Derby County?

The Rams’ interest mirrors Brighton’s recruitment model: big-money signings for young talent. Technical director David Weir called Watson an "exciting young talent" during his move to the Amex Stadium. But after limited Premier League minutes, Millwall loaned him in January, where he contributed to a 2-0 win at Wrexham and scored an own-goal assist in a February victory over Portsmouth.

What’s the hold-up?

Watson’s loan at Millwall—part of their Premier League push—has given him game time, but his injury history and struggles to break into Brighton’s first team raise doubts. Derby’s £20m bid would make him their most expensive signing ever, but Millwall’s interest and Watson’s fitness concerns mean this isn’t a done deal.

What’s next for Derby County?

With the transfer window open, Rooney’s squad needs creativity. Watson’s explosive left-foot could slot into a championship-winning side, but Millwall’s promotion push and Brighton’s valuation add layers. One thing’s clear: Derby won’t stop chasing—67 goals scored this season prove they need more firepower.