Michail Antonio lined up for shock transfer return to English football after two-month Qatar spell

WATFORD are reportedly considering a shock move for former West Ham star Michail Antonio as they look to bolster their squad. The Hornets could be in for a busy deadline day as they target reinforcements in several positions. Watford are reportedly targeting Michail Antonio Credit: Reuters Antonio was a key player at West Ham during his time there Credit: Getty Journalist Ben Jacobs, who works for talkSPORT, posted on X: “Watford in for a busy day as they seek a centre-back, winger and striker. “Michail Antonio also under consideration. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! “Mattie Pollock will not be leaving. Watford aware of Wrexham interest, but Pollock not for sale.🟡” Antonio, 36, could now be in line for a surprise return to English football after a short spell playing in Qatar playing for Al-Sailiya – a club he joined in March. The forward was an EFL star before making the jump to the Premier League with West Ham in 2015 following his move from Nottingham Forest. He quickly established himself as a key figure at the London Stadium, becoming renowned for his relentless work rate and first class attitude. One of the highlights of his West Ham career came in July 2020 when he produced a stunning four-goal display against Norwich, scoring all four as the Hammers thrashed the Canaries 4-0 away from home. His career was thrown into serious doubt in December 2024 when he suffered horrific injuries, including a broken leg, in a car crash. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS Antonio enjoyed one of the best afternoons of his career back in July 2020 when he scored four goals against Norwich The incident put both his career and his life in danger, but Antonio battled his way back – albeit with limited opportunities. He has made just 10 appearances since the crash – five for Al-Sailiya, two for West Ham’s Under-21s, and three for Jamaica during the 2025 Gold Cup. Now, Watford could offer him the chance to begin another chapter back in England. The Hornets are targeting a return to the Premier League, having last played in the top flight in 2022. So far, they have picked up five points from their opening three matches. A move would therefore give Antonio the chance to return to the level where he enjoyed the best years of his career. Comment now