Fresh Emmanuel Dennis/Watford claims emerge amid West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Everton transfer links | OneFootball

Emmanuel Dennis’ chances of playing Premier League football this season are increasingly looking unlikely.

That is according to the Express, who claim that clubs interested in the Nigerian international continue to turn their noses up at Watford’s £20 million valuation of the player.

So far this summer we have seen Dennis linked with several Premier League clubs, and some overseas, too, with the likes of Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, Southampton and Everton all parties that are said to have held discussions with Dennis’ representatives.

In bad news for Dennis, and potentially good news for Watford, though, none of those interested parties have indicated that they will be willing to fork out the fee that is required to get the 24-year-old out of Vicarage Road.

The Express claim that unless the Hornets slash their asking price, that is unlikely to change.

Dennis had a positive first season at Vicarage Road despite playing in a struggling side.

The Nigerian scored 10 Premier League goals after making the move from Club Brugge, as well as laying on six assists for his teammates.

Key Watford figure Cristiano Giaretta has made it clear that if the player is at the club come the start of the campaign, it is highly likely they will be available for selection.

Quiz: 20 statements about former Watford players – Are they true or false?

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That is backed up by Dennis starting the club’s final pre-season friendly against Southampton at the weekend.

The Verdict

This is an encouraging update for Watford, providing they aren’t intent on cashing in on Dennis this summer.

When on form in the Premier League last season there were times that the Nigerian looked unplayable, and the prospect of having such a player at their disposal for the Championship season must fill Watford fans with excitement.

If he does stay, it will be interesting to see if Dennis gets his head down and buys into the project under Rob Edwards. All signs so far indicate he is willing to do so.

If the Hornets have Ismaila Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis still on the books come the end of August, they will be looking very strong in the attacking areas.

There is still plenty of time left in the window for a Premier League or overseas club to stump up the cash Watford are looking for, though.