Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Fulham are maintaining close watch on Watford's promising young winger Rocco Vata, despite the player currently facing a significant injury setback.
Rising Star Attracts Premier League Attention
The 20-year-old forward, who was born in Glasgow and began his career at Celtic, joined Watford in 2024 on a four-year contract. Vata made an immediate impact at Vicarage Road, scoring five goals in his first campaign and adding two more in ten appearances this season before injury struck.
His performances have established him as one of the Championship's most exciting prospects, attracting attention from beyond England's borders. Italian side Atalanta and German club Eintracht Frankfurt had both dispatched scouts to assess the Republic of Ireland international earlier this season.
Injury Blow and Recovery Progress
Vata's rapid progress hit an unfortunate obstacle at the start of this month when he suffered a serious hamstring injury against Middlesbrough. The damage is expected to keep him sidelined for approximately three months, dealing a blow to both player and club.
However, there is positive news on the recovery front, with sources indicating the young winger is making good progress in his rehabilitation. During this period, Vata has also switched representation to StormSportsX, a move that often precedes significant career developments.
Transfer Stakes Remain High
Despite the injury, Watford's valuation of their prized asset remains firm at around £20 million. The club holds a strong contractual position, with Vata tied to Vicarage Road until 2028, plus an additional year's option in their favour.
Both Crystal Palace and Fulham have identified attacking reinforcements as a priority for the January transfer window and next summer. Palace face additional pressure with striker Jean-Philippe Mateta entering the final year of his contract and attracting interest from domestic and foreign clubs, despite initially promising talks over a new deal.
The situation creates an intriguing transfer dynamic, with Premier League clubs willing to monitor Vata's recovery closely as they plan their winter and summer recruitment strategies.
