Will Hughes finally appears set to leave Derby County for the Premier League this summer and Watford will be his destination.
Derby County’s Will Hughes
He may be just 22, but you have to admire Will Hughes’ staying power. Linked with Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton and more, the peroxide playmaker has remained true to Derby County since exploding onto the scene at the tender age of just 17.
However, it appears that a move to the Premier League finally beckons for one of the most exciting talents outside of the top flight. The Telegraph claim that, instead of joining a bonafide top flight giant, Hughes is close to joining a Watford side who finished just six points above the bottom three last season.
Hughes’ agent, former Hornets midfielder Paolo Vernazza, is in advanced negotiations over a move that is likely to cost £8 million up front, potentially rising to £10 million after instalments.
And though Watford may not be the most obvious move for a player regularly scouted by English football’s biggest and wealthiest clubs in recent years, moving to Vicarage Road would prove once more that Hughes is a player with maturity beyond his years.
Last year, the creative midfielder told The Telegraph that he did not see any reason to move to a traditional giant if he spent his time sitting on the bench. Watford, then, can surely offer far more regular game time.
And the report adds that Derby manager Gary Rowett has agreed to sell one of his prized assets, albeit reluctantly, in the hope that it will raise more money for summer transfers.
Derby manager Gary Rowett
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
