Earlier this week there were claims that Watford had a very strong interest in Sofiane Boufal, who starred for Lille last season.
A Boufal transfer has been rumoured since the January window, but the player preferred to stay with Lille for the remainder of the season, and then assess his options in the summer.
However, it didn’t end on a positive note as Boufal underwent surgery in May to clear up a meniscus issue. That will delay the 22 year old’s start to the season, but it’s not a barrier in the way of a transfer.
Claims earlier this week that Boufal was set to travel to England for talks with Watford over a £16.7m move came as a surprise, including to the player himself. Sport Witness understands that despite interest from Watford, the 22 year old is out of the club’s price range.
Watford’s interest isn’t unique in the Premier League, with Chelsea and Arsenal also interested in the young Moroccan.
The Pozzo family will have been integral to Watford’s interest, and whilst they may reignite their interest, there’s likely to be competition.