Udinese are in advanced negotiations with Watford over a triple transfer arrangement that would see striker Iker Bravo and defender Jordan Zemura join the Championship club on permanent deals, while discussions continue for midfielder Martin Payero.
Spanish forward Bravo, aged 21, is expected to complete a permanent move to Vicarage Road following his return from a loan spell at Las Palmas. He originally joined the Serie A side in the summer of 2024 for a fee of €600,000 after developing in the youth academies of Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen. During his time with Udinese, Bravo made 41 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and registering one assist.
Zemura, a 26-year-old Zimbabwe international who operates as a left-back, is also widely expected to make the switch to Watford. He arrived at Udinese as a free agent from Bournemouth in 2023 and is currently in the final months of his contract.
The third player involved is Argentine international Payero, aged 27. Negotiations for the midfielder remain ongoing. He joined Udinese from Middlesbrough in 2023 and spent last season on loan with Cremonese in Serie B.
Historical partnership
The negotiations highlight the enduring bond between the two clubs. Udinese and Watford previously operated as partner clubs under the ownership of the Pozzo family, which allowed them to function as feeder clubs for one another. This arrangement facilitated regular player exchanges on both temporary and permanent bases. Although the Pozzo family has since sold Watford, the clubs maintain close contact and continue to collaborate on transfer arrangements.
Deal progression
While the transfers of Bravo and Zemura are reportedly close to completion, Payero’s potential move remains under active negotiation. Should all three deals materialise, they would represent a significant influx of experience and versatility for the Championship side, while allowing Udinese to reshape their squad composition ahead of the new campaign.