Watford new boy was ‘attracting huge interest’ from other clubs before bargain switch.
According to Watford director Gian Luca Nani, Hector Kyprianou received significant interest from other clubs prior to joining Vicarage Road.
Watford’s new management promises a fresh start for their summer season.
Paulo Pezzolano has replaced Tom Cleverley in the dugout, and despite the unpopular decision to make the change, the Uruguayan will be looking to win over the Vicarage Road faithful ahead of next season.
Pezzolano will need to be supported in the transfer market, and while the Hornets did not pay a fee, they did make an early signing. Hector Kyprianou, a midfielder, joined on Monday after his contract with League One club Peterborough United expired.
According to Watford’s official website, director Gian Luca Pezzolano revealed that they were not the only ones interested in the 23-year-old, leading to their quick decision to sign him.
Nani revealed that they had been monitoring Kyprianou for some time and approached Peterborough early to get a jump on the numerous clubs interested in a deal.
“Hector is a player we have monitored for a while and we have been impressed with his technical ability and the passion of his game,” the man from Watford told reporters.
“After the season ended, we asked Peterborough for permission to speak with Hector, and we appreciate their cooperation in agreeing to this. It was critical to act quickly because Hector was attracting significant interest from other clubs, and we needed to act decisively.
“Hector fits the demands Paulo has for his players – intensity and a high technical and tactical awareness.”
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Who was the first Championship manager to depart?
Stepping up to the Championship.
Kyprianou began his career in League Two with Leyton Orient and later advanced to League One with Peterborough United.
He was a key player at London Road, protecting the backline from defensive midfield while also demonstrating box-to-box abilities when given more freedom to attack. He scored 16 goals in 140 games for Posh, the last of which was a fine long-range strike that helped the club win the EFL Trophy final.
Watford’s player is physically and technically prepared for the Championship, but may need time to adjust after learning in the third and fourth tiers.
Areas to address in Watford
This summer, Watford needed a defensive midfielder, and Kyprianou’s signing fills that need. However, there will be other positions to address in what must be a strong window for the Hornets.
The most obvious issue is in attack, with only Vakoun Bayo and Mamadou Doumbia available as strikers. When Bayo’s form dipped, Doumbia stepped in and showed promise, but the 19-year-old is still a developing player, so more depth and competition are required.
James Abankwah has been a success on loan from Udinese, but it is unclear whether he will stay permanently, while Daniel Bachmann’s likely departure means new cover and competition for Egil Selvik.
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