Watford eye free-agent move for Germany-Togo defender Omar Traoré

Watford are being strongly linked with a move for Germany-Togo right-back Omar Traoré, 28, who is currently without a club after leaving 2. Bundesliga side Heidenheim and is rated at €2.00m.

The Championship club are reported to be leading the chase for the defender, with the probability of a deal being put at 87% according to transfer reports dated 1 July 2026. Traoré’s contract at Heidenheim has expired, leaving him a free agent and able to negotiate without a transfer fee – a situation Watford are understood to be exploring as they reshape their squad for the new season.

Born in Osnabrück on 4 February 1998, the 1.87m right-back holds both German and Togolese nationality and is predominantly right-footed. Listed primarily as a defender – right-back, Traoré has built his career in German football, most recently featuring for Heidenheim in the 2. Bundesliga before becoming unattached this summer.

While official confirmation of his departure has not yet been detailed publicly, his registration now shows “without club”, underlining his free-agent status and making any move to Vicarage Road a low-risk option from a fee perspective despite his €2.00m market valuation on Transfermarkt.

Recent data does not specify individual match details such as his last appearance, scoreline or opponent, but his profile is that of a physically imposing full-back, comfortable in a back four and experienced in Germany’s second tier – a level often compared favourably with the Championship for intensity and physicality.

Traoré has yet to establish himself at senior international level and is currently listed without a national team, meaning a switch to England could be pivotal. If the proposed move to Watford materialises, it would offer him a prominent platform to revive his career and potentially enhance both his reputation and market value in one of Europe’s most competitive second divisions.