Agent reacts to claims Southampton, Crystal Palace, Burnley wanted Okoye before Watford move

Published: November 11, 2021

Former Feyenoord midfielder Wessel Weezenberg, who represents Maduka Okoye, has reacted to claims made by the Super Eagles goalkeeper that three English Premier League clubs namely Southampton, Crystal Palace and Burnley explored ways to sign him before agreeing terms with Watford.

On a sporting level, Okoye's claims that he chose the Hornets over the Saints, Eagles and Clarets did not add up as the three clubs have more Premier League pedigree than Watford in recent seasons.

Weezenberg has now clarified that Southampton, Crystal Palace and Burnley did not firm up their interest by making a concrete offer to Southampton and the Super Eagles glovesman.

Okoye has signed for Watford with effect from January 1, 2022, in exchange for seven million euros, making him the most expensive player sold by Sparta Rotterdam and the costliest Nigerian goalkeeper in history.

Asked why Okoye chose Watford over Southampton, Palace and Burnley, Weezenberg told allnigeriasoccer.com : "Interest does not mean concrete offer. The player wanted this great opportunity so we decided on it. He is ready for Premier League football".

The 22-year-old Okoye has sealed an upcoming transfer to the Premier League after 43 games under his belt for a top-flight club in Europe and eleven appearances for Nigeria's national team.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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