It is deadline day, and with less than 24 hours before the transfer window shuts, interest in Gerard Deulofeu continues to rise. Adam Leventhal from The Athletic reports that Italian side Fiorentina lead the race for the Watford winger, but nothing is concrete as of yet.
The former Barcelona star has been kept on Watford’s sidelines with an ACL injury, but it seems unlikely that his lack of fitness will not throw any team off, in trying to secure his services.
Watford have already lost Abdoulaye Doucoure to Everton and Roberto Pereyra to Udinese since their relegation to the Championship, and will be hopeful of keeping the rest of the squad together before the transfer window ends.
Deadline Day Drama Sees Gerard Deulofeu Centre of Attention
Fiorentina Lead the European Deadline Day Race for Deulofeu
The European clubs interested in the Spaniard are seemingly at as disadvantage. Despite deadline day being today, clubs will have an extra 11 days to do domestic transfers.
However, it is Fiorentina who lead the way in Europe, and it seems that they are not the only Italian club considering the 26-year-old winger. Napoli and another unnamed Serie A side are supposedly keen on making a move for Deulofeu.
Despite previous interest, AC Milan and Udinese are no longer options. However, whether other clubs join the chase for the highly-rated Watford man remains unseen.
Premier League is Still a Possibility
If the Italian side fail to strike a deal with the winger, it is likely that he will be heading for the Premier League, according to Leventhal. A number of clubs from England’s top tier have shown an interest, but will be hoping deadline day will finish before any of the Italian sides formulate a bid.
The interested parties in the Premier League remain nameless, but are likely to be more open, when the deadline passes. Deulofeu has proven himself amongst the very best for years, and it is not surprising to see so much speculation. Watford will do extremely well to keep their man, but unfortunately for the Hornets looks destined for a top-flight return.
Main Photo
