Everton handed Nestory Irankunda chance as Sporting transfer stalls

Everton could yet have an opportunity to sign Watford winger Nestory Irankunda after Sporting CP's pursuit of the highly rated attacker slowed during ongoing negotiations.

The Portugal champions have identified the 20-year-old as a priority addition to strengthen their attacking options this summer, but discussions with Watford have yet to produce a breakthrough. That delay has kept the door open for rival clubs, with Everton among those still monitoring the situation.

According to reports in Portugal, Sporting have already reached a full agreement with Irankunda over a five-year contract that would include an €80 million release clause.

However, the clubs remain apart on the transfer fee.

Sporting have submitted an offer worth €15 million plus a further €5 million in performance-related bonuses, but negotiations with Watford are continuing and no agreement has yet been reached.

The Lisbon club had hoped to complete the transfer in time to unveil Irankunda before the Cinco Violinos Trophy, although that timetable now appears increasingly unlikely.

With Sporting's move progressing more slowly than expected, Everton remain among the clubs capable of entering the race.

Hull City and Deportivo are also reported to be tracking the Australian international, meaning Watford could yet receive alternative proposals if the Portuguese side fail to reach an agreement.

For Everton, the current uncertainty may provide an opportunity to test Watford's resolve before Sporting complete the deal.

While negotiations continue behind the scenes, Irankunda has returned to England to begin pre-season training with Watford.

The winger is understood to be ready to make the move to Portugal after agreeing personal terms, but he is now waiting for Sporting and Watford to settle the remaining details of the transfer.

Until then, his future remains unresolved.

Everton have continued to assess opportunities to strengthen their attacking department this summer, and Irankunda's pace, direct running and long-term potential would fit the profile of a developing player capable of adding competition in wide areas.

Whether the Merseyside club choose to accelerate their interest may depend on Sporting's ability to conclude negotiations over the coming days.

Sporting CP are expected to continue talks with Watford as they attempt to complete the transfer. Should negotiations remain delayed, Everton and the other interested clubs could decide to make their own approach, leaving Irankunda's future open heading into the final weeks of the transfer window.