Watford rejected late bids from Everton and Sporting for 20-year-old, reporter claims
Journalist Pipe Sierra claims that Watford spurned down bids from Sporting and Everton for midfielder Yaser Asprilla.
During the hectic January transfer window, Watford added two players on permanent contracts and another on loan, while five players left Vicarage Road for good.
Asprilla was one player who stayed at the club past last evening’s 11 p.m. deadline. Portuguese powerhouse Sporting expressed interest in a late chase of the 20-year-old after he had drawn their eye early in the window.
Journalist Sierra claims that Sporting and Everton both made an attempt to sign the player. Both offers, though, fell short of the Hornets’ asking amount and were eventually turned down.
This season, Asprilla has established himself as a mainstay in Watford’s first squad. In 29 appearances across all competitions, he has five assists and four goals in his record. He has played as a central midfielder as well as a winger on either flank.
Better to keep him
Watford will undoubtedly gain from Asprilla remaining with the team over the transfer deadline. This season, he has shown himself to be a valuable addition for Valerien Ismael’s team in a variety of roles. Their prospects of moving up to the top six between now and the conclusion of the season will be enhanced by turning down offers.
It’s not surprising, though, that he’s been connected to moves abroad. Considering his age, adaptability, and performance with the Championship team this season, a move to a prominent European league may be imminent.
Watford’s late-transaction rejection of bids may indicate that Everton and Sporting, the two interested parties, will rekindle their pursuit in the summer. However, they will undoubtedly have to make better offers the next time.