Watford set to finalise loan move for 21-year-old striker | OneFootball

Watford are set to finalise a loan move for Benfica striker Henrique Araujo, according to a report from the Watford Observer.

It is understood that it is unlikely that Araujo will be available for selection for this weekend’s clash with Rotherham United due to the fact he will still need to gain international clearance when a deal is completed.

The 21-year-old travelled to Watford yesterday to undergo a medical and complete the necessary paperwork.

Araujo was believed to be a key target for Slaven Bilic who has been on the lookout for a new striker since the start of the transfer window.

A product of Benfica’s famed youth academy, the striker has featured on a number of occasions for the Portuguese outfit this season.

As well as making five substitute appearances in the Liga Portugal Bwin, Araujo has also played for the club on five occasions in the Champions League during the current term.

After scoring against FC Midtjylland in the qualifying stage of this aforementioned tournament, the striker managed to find the back of the net in Benfica’s 6-1 victory over Maccabi Haifa in November.

As a result of this triumph, Benfica finished top of their Champions League group ahead of French side Paris Saint-Germain.

The Verdict

With Watford set to secure the services of Araujo, it will be interesting to see whether he will be able to make an immediate impact for the club in the Championship.

Given that the Hornets are 11 points adrift of Sheffield United in the league standings, their best chance of securing an immediate return to the Premier League later this year will be via the play-offs.

Having demonstrated glimpses of talent at senior level in a Benfica shirt, it would not be at all surprising if Araujo goes on to make considerable strides in terms of his development under the guidance of Bilic before returning to Portugal later this year.

By producing some positive performances in the coming weeks, the striker may be able to establish as a key member of Watford’s squad as the club aims to achieve a great deal of success at this level.

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