Having already confirmed Tom Cleverley as permanent manager, Watford have now set their sights on strengthening the squad ahead of the summer transfer window.
The former Manchester United midfielder has been in charge for the past seven games as interim boss, following the dismissal of Valerien Ismael back in February, and has guided the Hornets to one win, one loss and five draws during his stint in the dugout so far.
https://twitter.com/WatfordFC/status/1783161273951093196
Furthermore, the side picked up four clean sheets in the meantime and proved to be tricky customers against promotion chasers Leeds United, West Bromwich Albion, Ipswich Town and Hull City, holding all four clubs to a draw and putting a dampener on their promotion hopes.
Having hung up his boots just last summer, the 34-year-old is now tasked with leading Watford into a new era after what has been a disappointing campaign for the Hertfordshire club, who currently sit in 15th place in the Championship, seven points above the relegation zone.
If the Hornets are to make a push for promotion next season in what will likely be a weaker league than the current crop of teams, getting recruitment right is a must. One area of the pitch the club are hoping to improve lies between the sticks.
According to a report from Portuguese outlet Record, via Sport Witness, Watford are leading the way for Farense goalkeeper Ricardo Velho who has an £8.6 million release clause. However, the outlet are claiming that current Europa League holders Sevilla are also keeping tabs on the 25-year-old shot-stopper.
Writer’s View
Velho’s contract expires with the Faro-based club at the end of the 2024/25 campaign so there may be a chance that Cleverley’s side can negotiate a lower price than his release clause as Farense won’t want to lose him for free. If not, a deal will certainly be off the table as a Championship team cannot afford to pay £8.6 million for one player.
That being said, Watford reportedly have a £43 million price tag on star attacker Yaser Asprilla, with European giants such as Barcelona interested. Should the two clubs agree a deal for the Colombian, perhaps there will be a little more wiggle room in the transfer kittee.
