Edoardo Bove joined Watford on a free transfer during the January transfer window.
The deal was seen as quite a coup in Italy, even though the midfielder hasn’t played in over 12 months. Previously he’d impressed for AS Roma before joining Fiorentina on a loan deal.
A heart problem had denied him from playing in Italy, as Bove had a defibrillator inserted in his chest in 2025. The Italian has yet to play for Watford, but hype is now growing about his on-field return.
Pozzo family’s group sporting director Gianluca Nani spoke to Sky Italia on Monday about the midfielder’s move to London. He revealed key details on how the transfer progressed.
The Italian said – relayed by ForzaRoma: “It was Udinese v Fiorentina, the last match of the season. he arrived at theTrieste airport with me and there was no car waiting for him. So I touched him on the shoulder and offered him a ride. He looked at me as if to say who this crazy guy is.”
“I said – you don’t know me but I do. Eventually he trusted me, got in the car, we talked, and I told him we’d work together soon. When it came time to sign, I didn’t even remember this episode, it was funny, a sign of destiny.”
Nani also appeared very protective of the 23-year-old, as he attempted to take pressure off his shoulders.
“We’re very happy for him, he’s doing what he was born to do. Now let’s not put pressure on him, when he feels ready, it will be the return to football for a very good player and a very capable lad.”
It is easy to see why Nani wants Bove to take his time before making his Watford debut. Beyond the fitness reasons, slowly settling into the club will only help the Italian return to his past form.
There is every reason for Hornets’ fans to be excited about the player. In his loan spell at Fiorentina, Bove contributed four goals in just 12 Serie A appearances during the 2024/25 season.
