The Watford Observer understands the Hornets are closing in on the signing of Juventus midfielder Roberto Pereyra.

Watford have been linked with a move for the Argentine international throughout this summer and have stepped up their pursuit of the playmaker.

Having sold Almen Abdi and allowed Steven Berghuis to leave on loan in the last week, the Premier League side are short on creativity and the signing of Pereyra would offer an extra attacking dimension to the side.

The 25-year-old's best position is just behind the strikers although he can also play on the wing.

Pereyra, who prefers to cut inside and play centrally, is a skilful attacker capable of creating plenty of chances with a goal threat.

Walter Mazzarri has targeted the signing of Pereyra to play behind Troy Deeney and Odion Ighalo with the Hornets' head coach still hoping to complete the deal before the start of the season.

The attacker was restricted to 16 appearances last season for Juventus and is unlikely to feature regularly if he remains with the Serie A champions.

Pereyra is familiar to the Pozzos after spending four years at Udinese prior to joining Juve.

Watford recently tried to buy Lille midfielder Sofiane Boufal but their offer was turned down by the French club and it looks increasingly unlikely this move will come off.

The Hornets have turned their attention to bringing in Pereyra and the club believe bringing him to Vicarage Road will provide a much-needed creative spark for the team.