Watford Sign Ravaglia and Payero in Double Deal
Watford FC has made a significant move in the transfer market by signing Italian goalkeeper Federico Ravaglia and midfielder Joaquín Payero in a double deal. The 26-year-old Ravaglia started 17 Serie A matches last season, keeping two clean sheets as Bologna finished eighth. He also made five Europa League appearances, notably saving a penalty from Morgan Rogers against Aston Villa.
Payero, 27, becomes Watford’s fourth signing from Udinese this summer. The midfielder began his career at Banfield before moving to Middlesbrough in 2021. There, he scored in a penalty shootout victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup. He later spent a season with Boca Juniors before joining Udinese permanently in September 2023.
"Federico has valuable experience from playing in the top two divisions in Italy, and from playing in European competitions, that will really help us," said Group Technical Director Gian Luca Nani. "He is a goalkeeper of technique and talent, as well as being a leader in the dressing room and in organising the defence."
What comes next?
With the signings of Ravaglia and Payero, Watford FC is looking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. The team currently sits 16th in the Championship, 57 points behind leaders Coventry. They have scored 53 goals and conceded 65 this season, with a recent form of LLLLL.
Their next fixture is against Cardiff City away on 13th October 2026. The team will be looking to bounce back from their recent losses and make a push for a top-half finish in the Championship.
Why it matters for Watford
The signings of Ravaglia and Payero are a significant boost for Watford FC. The team has been struggling to find consistency this season, but with the addition of these two experienced players, they may be able to turn their form around. The signings also show that the club is committed to strengthening their squad and making a push for promotion.
League standing
Watford FC currently sits 16th in the Championship, 57 points behind leaders Coventry. They have scored 53 goals and conceded 65 this season, with a recent form of LLLLL. Their next fixture is against Cardiff City away on 13th October 2026.
