Watford requires central defenders as the loan deals for four of their current players in that position are set to expire. Following Oxford United's relegation from the Championship, 30-year-old Polish international Michał Helik has been suggested as a potential target and a powerful leader for the defence. Helik has already attracted transfer interest, is considered to be of a standard above League One, and is expected to have opportunities to return to a higher league. He is noted as a significant aerial presence, and his familiarity with the level could allow him to adapt quickly. The centre-back has 7 caps for Poland, and his contract with Oxford United runs until June 2027. Transfermarkt estimates his current market value at €1.20m, while reports from May 2026 mention an active release clause of €750,000.