Watford are set to sign Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen on a season-long loan deal in the close season, say reports.
The Daily Mirror report the Hornets are leading the queue to sign the Belgian centre-half from the Blaugrana, who have no desire to retain the former Arsenal defender in their squad when he returns from his loan spell at Roma.
The 31-year-old has appeared nine times for the Giallorossi in Serie A this campaign but has failed to make a serious impression in Rome.
Vermaelen previously spent five seasons in the English Premier League with Arsenal, making 150 appearances, but after only 21 appearances across two seasons with Barca and injury problems, his career has stalled.
Watford are reportedly keen to reinforce their defence this summer and see the former Ajax man as a priority given his availability.
