Arsenal and Everton are said to be keeping tabs on a potential transfer for Watford star Yaser Asprilla.
That is according to The Mirror on Sunday’s print edition (07/07/2024, page 72), which claims that the Colombian attacking midfielder is being watched with the view to a potential bid going in.
Asprilla is currently representing Colombia at the Copa América, after an impressive season for Watford in which he scored six and assisted seven goals in the Championship.
The 20-year-old is one of the most exciting players in the second tier, and a move to one of the most established clubs in the Premier League could be exactly what he needs to kick-start his career at the top level.
Arsenal and Everton interested in Watford midfielder Yaser Asprilla
Watford forward Asprilla is attracting interest from Arsenal and Everton, with it seeming as though the youngster could be set to leave Vicarage Road this summer.
The Watford Observer reported in May that the Hornets have no intention of selling the Colombia international, but it will be interesting to see whether their stance remains the same amid interest from two of the most respected clubs in England.
It would be no surprise if the player wanted to explore the possibility of a move to the Premier League, and with Arsenal also offering the prospect of Champions League football, he would almost certainly want to hold discussions if a fee can be agreed.
While Asprilla is primarily a winger, he is capable of playing across the front line, with his pace, dribbling and crossing ability making him a dangerous opponent for defenders.
He has a strong left foot, and likes to cut inside from the right-hand side before unleashing efforts on goal.
Arsenal could be viewing Asprilla as long-term cover for Bukayo Saka, while Everton would likely give him a chance to compete with Jack Harrison for a place in the first team next season.
The youngster has impressed during his short time in England, and he could take his game to a new level if he is given an opportunity in the top flight next season.
Watford could be set to make another sale following Ismael Kone deal
Watford have sold a few players for significant transfer fees in the last couple of years.
Asprilla could be the latest Watford player to leave the club for a huge profit. The promising youngster arrived at Vicarage Road from Colombian side Envigado in 2022, and has made 86 appearances for the club despite his young age.
His contract is not set to expire until 2026, so the Hornets do not need to sell him this summer, but if the player wants a move, then it could become difficult to keep him.
Midfielder Ismael Kone left Vicarage Road this summer to join Marseille in a deal that could be worth up to £15m. Last summer, the Hornets sold Ismaila Sarr to Marseille, Joao Pedro to Brighton & Hove Albion and Christian Kabasele to Udinese in multi-million pound moves.
Tom Cleverley was named as Watford’s permanent head coach at the end of the season, and he will hope that he can use some of the money Watford have received in transfer fees to strengthen the squad ahead of his first full season in charge.
It is important that the Hornets improve on last season’s 15th place finish. Cleverley was named as interim head coach in March after the sacking of Valerien Ismael, and now that he has been appointed permanently, Watford will hope that they can carry some momentum into the new season.
Watford already need to add more quality to their squad ahead of next season, and if they decide to cash in on Asprilla during this transfer window, it will become even more important that they do so.
