Premier League clubs Watford and Wolverhampton Wanderers are engaged in a battle to sign Turkish defensive midfielder Okay Yokuslu from Celta Vigo, according to Lyall Thomas. The midfielder had a successful loan spell at West Bromwich Albion in the second half of 2020/21, even though he was unable to prevent the club from being relegated to the Championship.
Watford and Wolves Want Okay Yokuslu
Impressive Spell at The Hawthorns
Turkish international Okay Yokuslu arrived at West Bromwich Albion on loan from Celta Vigo. He played 16 times in the Premier League, providing one assist. He impressed in his short time, earning plaudits for his style.
The Baggies confirmed his move on deadline day of the winter transfer window and his debut was in a 2-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur just six days later. Despite the club’s relegation, Yokuslu impressed a string of Premier League clubs. He was part of the side that picked up a 5-2 win over a Chelsea side that would later go on to win the Champions League.
The midfielder left Turkey in 2018 when he departed Trabzonspor to join Celta. He played 32 times in his maiden La Liga season, and 26 in the next. He made 12 appearances in the first half of 2020/21 before joining West Brom.
Clubs Vying for Signature
Yokuslu’s price tag of £5 million is appealing to clubs still reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Celta Vigo are open to letting the midfielder leave, and Yokuslu himself wants a Premier League move.
Wolves are refreshing their squad this summer. Nuno Espirito Santo left the club with Bruno Lage replacing him. They also lost goalkeeper Rui Patricio to Roma, with Jose Sa being signed as his replacement. Rayan Ait-Nouri’s loan is now permanent, while Francisco Trincao is a loan arrival from Barcelona.
Watford, meanwhile, are back in the top flight after a season in the Championship. They have wrapped up most of their business early in the transfer window, but are working hard to improve their squad for Premier League survival. Juraj Kucka, Josh King and Imran Louza are among their headline arrivals.
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