Watford are expected to demand an eight-figure fee for sought-after star Rocco Vata, amongst continued interest from several Premier League sides ahead of the January transfer window.
The Hornets are currently clawing their way back into top half contention after a difficult start to the season, but are currently on a five-match unbeaten run and have risen up to 15th in the Championship.
Despite their frustrating start to the season, their star assets are continuing to warrant further attention, as the January transfer window continues to loom closer.
Price tag revealed for Watford star
As reported by journalist Simon Jones, Watford are expected to demand £20 million for star Rocco Vata, as Premier League interest continues to grow in the talented playmaker.
Fulham and Crystal Palace have been credited with an interest in his services, whilst European sides Atalanta and Eintracht Frankfurt have previously sent scouts to the Championship side, with interest continuing to grow.
Vata’s current deal at Watford runs until June 2028, with the Championship side also holding a one-year option in their favour, should they wish to extend his stay further.
How has he fared so far this season?
The 20-year-old signed for Watford at the start of the 2024/25 campaign from SPFL champions Celtic and has kicked on with his development at the Championship outfit, despite the changing of managers once again.
This season, Vata got off to a flying start for Watford, before sustaining an injury which saw him miss several months and remains out. He has registered a total of four goal contributions across his ten league outings thus far.
Unfortunately for Watford, he isn’t expected to return to action until the end of January – but that hasn’t stopped continued interest into his services.
Is he Premier League ready?
Ultimately, whether anyone believes Vata is Premier League ready is a matter of opinion, but there is no denying that he has risen to the challenge of men’s first-team football superbly and the interest in his services certainly vouch for that.
Vata has contributed a goal in 40% of his matches this season, which is an impressive statistic for most wingers – let alone a 20-year-old newly adjusting to life in the Championship.
Crystal Palace have a proven track record when it has came to developing young talent, whilst Fulham have their fair share of options that Vata can certainly learn and grow off.
The price tag of £20 million also sounds high, but it further cements how highly-rated he is likely to be at Watford and how high his ceiling could be in his career.