Watford’s Imran Louza is likely to leave the club this summer, with Saint-Etienne recently expressing an interest in the midfielder.
As Watford begin a new era under former player Tom Cleverley, they are looking to build a squad ready to push up the Championship table after a disappointing season last year.
The Hornets have made a few solid additions to their squad so far, but are also ensuring that players who they no longer want around the club are moved on this summer.
They have already shown they are not afraid to sell some of their most valuable assets, as Ismael Kone has already departed the club in a big money move to Marseille.
This might not be the last big deal they do with a French side, as another midfielder is set for a move across the channel.
Is Louza On His Way out of Watford?
Newly promoted Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne are eyeing up a move for out-of-favour Watford midfielder Imran Louza, according to Get Football News France.
The 25-year-old was a key part of Watford’s 2022/23 season, but for a number of reasons, he fell out of favour in the 2023/24 season.
He made just 11 starts for Watford in the first half of the season before the club decided the best decision was to loan the Moroccan international out as he joined FC Lorient for the second half of the 23/24 campaign.
He found more consistent game time and saw his performances get increasingly better during his loan spell.
Is a deal likely?
However, it is believed that he will likely not be a part of Watford and Cleverley’s plans moving forward.
Louza will still hold value in transfer negotiations, as the Hornets will look to make as much money as they can for the midfielder.
With the big sale of Kone already completed and the club potentially selling Yasper Asprilla in a big money move too, Louza is another opportunity for Watford to profit as they look to increase their transfer budget to assist in their attempted squad rebuild.
Although Louza when on form is one of the better midfielders in the division, he seems set on departing the club permanently after the fallout between himself and the club.
It will likely be a win-win for both the club and player, as Louza gets a fresh start and Watford get to receive a large fee for a player who no longer wants to be at the club.