Watford FC in talks to land ambitious Serie A transfer deal | OneFootball

Watford are pursuing the signing of Edoardo Bove from Roma this January

Watford are seeking a deal to sign AS Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove this month, as he seeks an exit from his home country of Italy.

According to the Watford Observer, the Hornets have held talks with the player about a possible switch to Vicarage Road as he seeks the next step in his career.

The 23-year-old spent last season on loan with Fiorentina, but he has not played since December 2024, after he collapsed during their clash with Inter Milan.

The midfielder is now unable to play in Serie A, as he was given an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator as a result of his collapse last season.

The Italian top flight rules state that players are not permitted to compete in the division while having a defibrillator, which also prevented Christian Eriksen from playing for Inter Milan a few years ago, meaning Bove must seek a move away from his home nation in order to further his career.

Watford FC trying for Edoardo Bove transfer deal

Watford are seeking reinforcements to their first-team squad this month amid their pursuit of promotion to the Premier League.

The Hornets have reportedly held talks with midfielder Bove about signing as a free agent, as he is set to have his contract with Roma terminated.

It’s believed that there is interest from Bove regarding a move to England, and there is optimism that the Championship side can strike an agreement soon.

Watford are understood to be keen that the financial and medical concerns are sorted before any deal is finalised, but that they are hopeful he will join the club this month.

Javi Gracia’s side are currently in the play-offs, sitting sixth in the table after 25 games played with a total of 41 points.

The Hornets have won their last four league games in a row, and are only five points adrift of the automatic promotion places.

Next up for Watford is an FA Cup third round clash away to Bristol City on January 10 in a 5.45pm kick-off, which will see them take a short break away from their impressive Championship form.

Edoardo Bove transfer may require some patience for Watford FC

Bove was having quite a promising career prior to his medical issues just over a year ago, and he was a regular presence for Fiorentina during his loan spell.

However, recovering from such a serious medical issue could take some time, and Watford will need to be patient with him if he does join, given the fact it's been well over a year since he played any sort of competitive football.

Yet, it could prove a very smart piece of business if Bove can get back to his best, as he is a talented player with plenty of potential, with a number of Italy under-21's caps to his name as well.

Much like Brentford took a chance on Christian Eriksen a few years ago following his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020, Watford look to be willing to hand Bove a lifeline, and providing they can get it over the line, this could prove a very shrewd move.