Watford FC midfielder Georgi Chakvetadze wanted by Valencia as transfer talks begin | OneFootball

Valencia are interested in signing Watford midfielder Georgi Chakvetadze.

Spanish outfit Valencia are in talks with Watford FC as they look to sign Georgi Chakvetaadze ahead of the summer transfer deadline.

Despite the Hornets enduring a disappointing campaign last time out, the Georgian international enjoyed an impressive season, as he scored twice and registered six assists from midfield and was the Hertfordshire outfit's main creative spark.

Soccer Football - FA Cup - Third Round - Watford v Chesterfield - Vicarage Road, Watford, Britain - January 6, 2024 Watford's Giorgi Chakvetadze in action with Chesterfield's Miguel Freckleton Action Images/Matthew Childs

As well as the end product, Chakvetadze was a joy to watch for Watford with his dribbling ability, and he produced many memorable moments for the team - he may however have played his final game for the Hornets.

Valencia trying to sign Watford midfielder Georgi Chakvetadze

It was always going to be difficult for Watford to keep the 25-year-old at Vicarage Road, with a host of clubs having been linked with the ex-Gent man over the past few months.

However, it appears Valencia are now emerging as the front-runners to sign Chakvetadze, as journalist Sacha Tavolieri has revealed the La Liga outfit - managed by ex-West Brom boss Carlos Corberan - have ‘made contact’ with Watford over a deal.

He adds that personal terms won’t be an issue with the player, so it’s now a case of trying to agree a fee with the Hornets in order for this transfer to progress.

Chakvetadze is yet to feature for Watford this season, as he continues to recover from a foot injury that has kept him out since April, although it is thought that he will return to action in the next few weeks - if he is still a Watford player for that matter.

Georgi Chakvetadze would be a big loss for Watford FC if he were to be sold

Obviously, new boss Paulo Pezzolano hasn’t had the chance to work with Chakvetadze properly due to his injury issues, but he will be aware of how good a player the attacking midfielder is.

He is someone who can make a difference in the final third with how he carries the ball, finds space, and makes key contributions in attack.

But, the reality is that it was always going to be difficult to retain Chakvetadze, even with his contract still having four years to run.

The chance to join Valencia, who are managed by former West Brom boss Carlos Corberan, is going to appeal, and it will give Chakvetadze the chance to play at a higher level.

So, it would be no surprise if this developed quickly, but Watford must ensure they get a good fee for their key man, otherwise they should stand firm and reassess in January if Chakvetadze is willing to stick around.

Now, it’s a case of continuing negotiations with Valencia, and, if a deal is agreed, it’s then about giving Pezzolano the funds to strengthen other areas of the squad over the next few weeks, and it may be the case that imminent arrival Sandi Lovric from Udinese will fit the new-look 3-5-2 formation better than Chakvetadze would.