With the transfer window now closed, head coaches will have to wait four months to sign reinforcements from other clubs. The Hornets made 11 senior-squad signings this past transfer period, though that figure could have risen to one dozen on deadline day.
Watford Supposedly Had Late DeAndre Yedlin Interest
According to journalist Ertan Suzgun (via Twitter), the Hornets had serious interest in Galatasaray’s DeAndre Yedlin on deadline day. He even claims that his representatives were in touch with Watford, though limited time left to push a deal over the line ensured the transfer did not happen.
Whether or not there was in fact this rumoured interest is hard to determine, as a deadline-day move for a full-back (who does not also play center-back) was always going to be super unlikely. However, the link is noteworthy nevertheless as it means Watford may look to secure Yedlin’s services in the future.
Potential Femenia Successor
The interest in Yedlin was surprising considering the Hornets have both Kiko Femenia and Jeremy Ngakia for the right-back position. Craig Cathcart has also played in the position when necessary. Thus, room for another right-back at Vicarage Road – especially one over the age of 21 – did not seem present. The arrival of Brandon Soppy, a 19-year-old right-back prodigy from Stade Rennais, would not have been the biggest of shocks considering he would not count against the 25-man roster for the next couple of seasons (he has gone to Udinese instead).
The best explanation for interest in Yedlin would be that he is the ideal man to replace Femenia when he eventually departs. Whether Yedlin would immediately hop above Ngakia on the depth chart is unclear, as Ngakia will only further improve by the time the Spaniard leaves.
It is known that in the future, Femenia would like to return to Spain to play the final years of his career in his home nation. However, at 30-years-old, he will likely want to spend a couple of more seasons at the highest level possible before his career’s swan song. The Watford Observer even stated Femenia rejected a move back to Spain in January.
Overall, the legitimacy of the links between Watford and Yedlin can rightfully be questioned as multiple pieces would have had to move for any deal to have been struck. However, if a move for the former Spurs and Newcastle player is talked about in the future (therefore, closer to the time Femenia departs), it will not come as a surprise. After all, the 64-time-capped USA international team player has already proven he has what it takes to effectively perform in the Premier League.
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