It's not the highest-profile signing you are likely to see on deadline day, but Watford have completed the signing of Dutch midfielder Mitchel Bergkamp, son of Arsenal and Ajax legend Dennis.
The 22-year-old was released by Eredivisie side Almere City last summer and is now looking to follow in the footsteps of the marginally more famous Bergkamp who came before him - one that scored over 100 goals and became Invincible in an illustrious decade with Arsenal.
? DEAL DONE: Watford have signed Mitchel Bergkamp, son of Dennis, on a short-term deal until the end of the season. Free transfer. (Source: @WatfordFC) pic.twitter.com/UzjQUNxnu6
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 1, 2021
But what is there to know about the latest chapter in the Bergkamp saga? And what sort of player are Watford bringing to Vicarage Road?
We've got you covered.
1. He doesn't mind being compared to his dad
Bergkamp Jr. doesn't mind the comparisons: in fact he's come to see them as a source of inspiration.
He told the Watford website after he signed: “When I was younger it was difficult [to be compared all the time] but I've adapted to it now. It's just my name and I'm my own player and hopefully I can leave my own legacy.
"He's been amazing to me and for me. He's my number one fan and has always been there for me. It's a privilege to have him as my dad and to work with him on my game.”
2. Plenty to prove
Despite being 22, he is yet to make a senior debut at club level, having spent the past seven years of his career in Almere City's academy.
That's not to say he has no competitive experience, though. Prior to leaving in the summer, me made 47 recorded appearances for Almere in the Derde Divisie - effectively the Dutch equivalent of League Two.
3. Chip off the old block
It may come as no surprise to hear that Mitchel describes himself as “a No. 10 who likes to keep possession, create chances and score goals,” then.
And judging from a handful of videos on his Instagram, he's not a bad entertainer himself. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
4. He had a trial with Arsenal
Arsenal have handed a trial to Mitchel Bergkamp, son of club legend Dennis. 22-year-old Bergkamp is a free agent having left Dutch second tier side Almere City & has spent the week training at London Colney with Steve Bould’s U23s team. [@charles_watts, Goal] #afc pic.twitter.com/Syy6cSWLeB
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) October 22, 2020
Mitchel has been keen to try his hand in English football for a while, and had designs on a move to Arsenal back in October, when Steve Bould was looking to add some more experienced players to his Under-23 side.
After running the rule over him for a week, the Gunners decided against offering him a deal, and Watford will be hoping they come to regret that decision.
5. He joins baby Pochettino
Maurizio Pochettino, le fils de Mauricio ainsi que Mitchel Bergkamp, le fils de Dennis, rejoignent l’équipe U23 du club.
— Watford Fc France ? (@FranceWatford) February 1, 2021
Bienvenue à eux ! #Watford #WatfordFc pic.twitter.com/q6o1jVcdaP
In a somewhat bizarre coincidence, Bergkamp arrives at Watford in the same week the club also signed Maurizio Pochettino - son of PSG and former Tottenham manager Mauricio.
Poch Jr, just 19, will play alongside Bergkamp for the Under-23 side, who play in the southern division of the Professional Development League.
That's where most of the top Championship sides play their reserve football - the duo will face off with Cardiff, Swansea, QPR and Bristol City among others.
6. London is his home
Mitchel sees London, and in particularly Arsenal, as his 'home' despite the other clubs his dad plays for.
He said last year: “My father also played for Internazionale and Ajax, two wonderful clubs, but Arsenal feels like home.”
Source: 90min