Why Watford are delighted with Nestroy Irankunda deal despite Bayern Munich clause, he’s a ‘fantastic talent’

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In a move that has both delighted fans and raised eyebrows due to a unique Bayern Munich clause, Watford have officially secured the signing of Nestroy Irankunda.

After a disappointing 2024/25 Championship campaign, Watford are signalling their intent to be top-six contenders with a strong summer transfer window. 

The Hornets wasted no time, sacking Tom Cleverley and bringing in Paulo Pezzolano as his replacement. Within the Uruguayan’s first weeks in charge, Watford have signed several quality players to bolster Pezzolano’s squad, with the signing of Nestroy Irankunda being a major achievement. 

However, there’s one key detail in the background that makes this deal particularly interesting.

Watford ‘excited’ about recent signing Nestroy Irankunda

EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal via information from our Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey, we can reveal why Watford are delighted to sign Nestroy Irankunda.

“This is very much what you see across the board in Europe. The reason that Bayern have a 50% sell-on fee is that’s what makes the transfer fee so cheap for Watford,” Bailey explained.

“There are teams in South America who own 50% of the player and deals like that are not legal in England. You can’t do that. But this is the way around it in Europe where basically, Bayern own 50% of that player. That’s the way you got to see it.

“In fact, he is a fantastic talent. Watford beat top flight clubs from all over Europe. There was Premier League interest in this boy.

“I’m told Burnley and Leeds were amongst the ones who looked at him. He was on Palace’s radar, too. He’s a very exciting talent. Watford are delighted to get him.

“It’s one of those, if he plays as well as they think, he could be gone in 12 months. But you dance with the devil sometimes. If he does leave in 12 months, it’s because he’s had a very good season.

“So, it’s a catch-22. Could they have got him with a different type of deal? I’m not so sure. So, I think they’re very excited by it.”

Watford’s Gamble on Nestroy Irankunda’s rapid rise

Watford’s strategic gamble on Nestroy Irankunda epitomises their ambition for a rapid return to the Premier League, a huge task for manager Paulo Pezzolano.

Irankunda’s recent performances, including a prolific spell at Adelaide United where he scored 16 goals in 61 appearances and won A-League Young Player of the Year, highlight his ability to terrorise defences.

He’s recorded blistering speeds up to 37km/h and boasts a powerful shot, often cutting inside from the wing.

Despite limited senior game time at Bayern and a loan at Grasshoppers, his talent remains undeniable, it’s no wonder he caught the eye of top-flight clubs across Europe. 

Watford will be hoping his eye for goal will be a potent weapon in the Championship, capable of creating chances and moments of magic needed to break down stubborn opposition.

If his rapid rise continues as anticipated, his impact will be immediate, driving Watford’s promotion push and justifying the calculated risk of his potentially brief stay.