KEY POINTS

  • Watford is ready to forego the final year of Troy Deeney contract
  • Celtic FC and Birmingham Cit are showing interest in Deeney
  • Deeney may want a long-term deal

The transfer deadline is winding down, and several teams could pull off some deals before it officially closes on Tuesday, August 31.

The latest name to be mentioned is Watford captain Troy Deeney, who has been linked to at least two teams.

According to The Athletic, Birmingham City is reportedly in talks with Watford for the services of the English striker.

Both sides have yet to reach an official settlement, but the report goes on to state that the two clubs are keen to get the deal done.

“Troy is a good player, he is a good striker, scores goals, works hard for his team. I know him, I have met him a couple of times, he seems like a winner,” Birmingham City manager Lee Bowyer said on Saturday, August 28.

The word going around is that Watford is open to releasing the 33-year-old player who has one more year left in his contract.

If this becomes official, Deeney could move to Birmingham City on a free transfer.

Further backing that possibility is the fact that Deeney did not see action against when the Hornets won over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup win.

He was likewise not in action against Tottenham in their English Premier League outing on Sunday.

Deeney has so far registered 140 goals in the 419 appearances he has had with Watford.

Aside from the Hornets, another team reportedly interested in Deeney is Celtic FC. They are said to be exploring options and may try to pull off something before the transfer deadline, the Sunday Mirror reported.

Aware that Watford is open to allowing Deeney to forego the final year of his deal, Celtic is open to taking him in.

However, it remains to be seen if this will be a long-term deal similar to the alleged planned pitch of Birmingham City.

Watford striker Troy Deeney
Watford striker Troy Deeney AFP / Glyn KIRK

Considering Deeney has established himself as one of the polarizing figures in English football, a move to Celtic or Birmingham could make sense.

Oozing with experience, he is credited with scores at League One and Championship top-flight levels.

At 33, there is no question that Deeney is reaching the penultimate point of his career. He remains a potent threat on offense for any team.

Proof of that is his seven Championship goals last season in 19 appearances that helped Watford gain promotion.

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