Watford boss Tom Cleverley has played down speculation that Ryan Porteous is “unhappy” at the club amid speculation over a move to Rangers.
Philippe Clement is in dire need of defensive reinforcements amid a slump in form with Robin Propper left as the only senior centre-back available for the club with John Souttar, Leon Balogun, Dujon Sterling, Neraysho Kasanwirjo already sidelined. Prospects Clinton Nsiala and Leon King have been drafted in to fill the void at the heart of the defence.
But a report from the continent this week claimed the Scotland stopper could be on the move halfway through his four-year Hornets contract and they state Hull City have made an offer. Former Rangers hero Craig Moore reckons that the former Hibs man is someone the Light Blues will be looking as they look at to add a player with experience of the Premiership. But Cleverley insists he wants to keep Porteous.
He told the Watford Observer: “I spoke to Ryan this morning, and we cleared the air. I don’t know where the reports have come from, and I don’t think there are any quotes in the stories.
“He is one of a number of our players that have attracted a little bit of interest, but right now Ryan is a Watford player and right in the thick of things for selection. He is professional and experienced enough that these things won’t take his eye off the ball.
“He’s a Watford player. He’s available for selection and he’s fully focussed on doing his job for Watford.”
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