Watford have pulled out of a deal to sign Riccardo Sottil from Fiorentina after the player underwent medical tests in England. The Championship side had been expected to complete a loan move with an option to buy for the 27-year-old winger, but the club changed its mind at the final stage.

This news comes as Watford prepare for their next Championship fixture, an away match against West Brom on September 5th. The Hornets currently sit 13th in the table with five points from their opening four games, a record of one win, two draws and one loss. Their recent form reads LDDW, and they have scored four goals while conceding five so far this season.

Riccardo Sottil's proposed move to Vicarage Road has collapsed. Sky Sport Italia stated that "Watford changed their minds and will now not be signing Sottil after all." The Italian outlet detailed that the decision followed the player's medical examinations. Sottil, a product of the Fiorentina youth academy, was set to join on a temporary basis with a future purchase option. His contract with the Serie A club runs until June 2027.

The 27-year-old has gained experience through several loan spells in Italy. He has previously played for Pescara, Cagliari, AC Milan, and Lecce. His potential arrival was seen as a boost for Watford's attacking options, but the club's hierarchy ultimately opted against proceeding. This leaves manager Tom Cleverley to work with his existing squad as the transfer window closes.

In a separate Italian transfer story, former Roma attacker Stephan El Shaarawy is closing in on a return to Genoa. The 34-year-old, who turns 35 next month, was released by Roma on June 30th and is now a free agent. Negotiations are advanced for him to rejoin the club where he began his professional career.

El Shaarawy last played for Genoa in May 2011 before moving to AC Milan. His extensive career has also included stints at Monaco and Shanghai Shenhua in China, before his long spell with Roma. His imminent signing for Genoa highlights the different trajectories of these two transfer sagas as the deadline passes in Italy.

Watford's decision on Sottil means they will not add his wide attacking threat to their ranks. The club's recruitment team must now look ahead to the next opportunity, likely in the January window. For now, the focus shifts entirely to on-pitch matters and improving their league position.

With five points from four matches, Watford are five points behind early leaders Swansea City. Their next challenge is a tough trip to The Hawthorns to face 7th-placed West Brom. A positive result there could provide momentum. Fans can follow the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures list.

The closure of the transfer window in England brings certainty to the squad composition. Manager Tom Cleverley knows the group he has for the coming months and can plan accordingly. The team's early-season stats show a need for greater offensive output, having netted just four times. The search for solutions will continue within the current playing staff.

Watford's next match is away to West Bromwich Albion on September 5, 2026.