Socceroos star Nestory Irankunda is reportedly on the verge of a record transfer deal for an Australian player.

Irankunda is in the sights of Portuguese giant Sporting Lisbon after making his World Cup debut and scoring in Australia’s only win – the 2-0 group stage victory over Turkey.

The goal made the 20-year-old the youngest Australian to score at a World Cup.

He has been playing with English Championship side Watford but is is reportedly nearing a permanent transfer to Sporting, the famous club at which Cristiano Ronaldo launched his glittering career.

The Lisbon club was runner-up in last season’s Primeira Liga. That qualified it for the UEFA Champions League, meaning that – should he break through into the first team – Irankunda has a chance to test himself against Europe’s best.

Sporting is yet to confirm the deal. But reports in Portugal indicate that in a deal that includes add-ons, Watford could pocket a total of €22 million ($A35 million) for the 20-year-old’s services.

That would mean Irankunda surpasses fellow Socceroos teammate Harry Souttar, who moved from Stoke City to Leicester City in 2023 for €17 million ($A27 million) as Australia’s most expensive transfer.

“Outstanding news. Champions League football is vitally important for all Australian Socceroos to play at the highest level,” ex-Socceroos captain Craig Foster wrote on social media.

“The opportunity provided to the next gen to play in the World Cup has, and will pay dividends for them all. Also a legendary Portuguese club with a significant tradition of wingers. Ronaldo, Figo, Nani et al. Well done to Nestory. Looking forward to seeing you in the Champions League this season.”

Irankunda was born in a refugee camp in Tanzania and came to Australia as a child. He played in 40 of Watford’s Championship games last season, including 22 starts, scoring four goals and registering five assists.

He had also been strongly linked to newly promoted Premier League club Hull City, as well as other teams in England and Italy.

“I see myself playing at a top level soon, whether that’s now or next season,” Irankunda said after the World Cup.

“It will happen eventually in my opinion. I have that belief in myself that I can get to that level one day. Time will tell.”

Sporting would be Irankunda’s third permanent move in as many years.

He joined Bayern Munich from Adelaide United two years ago. Then, after time on loan at Grasshopper Zurich, he was sold from Bayern to Watford ahead of the start of last season.

-with AAP