Watford opt against resigning Emmanuel Dennis | OneFootball

Watford have decided against resigning Emmanuel Dennis (27) at this stage, despite holding advanced talks with the striker over an 18-month contract and putting him through medical and fitness tests earlier this week, Sky Sports reports.

The 27-year-old free agent, who has trained with the club in recent weeks, had expressed a strong desire to return to Vicarage Road for a third spell and was prepared to accept a significantly reduced salary. However, sources suggest that the club’s hierarchy, while impressed by Dennis’s enthusiasm, ultimately chose not to finalise the deal, though they have left the door open for renewed discussions in January.

Dennis, who enjoyed a productive first stint with Watford between 2021 and 2023 before a short loan return the following year, was being considered by new head coach Javi Gracia as a potential attacking option amid the club’s push for promotion.

Watford’s decision is believed to have been influenced by fitness concerns and a desire to maintain balance within the dressing room, as Gracia continues to shape his squad.

For now, Dennis is expected to continue training informally with the team, keeping himself in contention for a possible mid-season return, if circumstances align.

GFN | Finn Entwistle