Watford have opened talks over a proposed deal for Jack Rodwell.

The 27-year-old midfielder cancelled his £73,000 a week contract with Sunderland by mutual consent last month and had spoken about joining clubs from the MLS, Holland and Italy.

However, Watford have invited him to train with them as they assess the former England international and are discussing a contract offer for him after he impressed manager Javi Gracia.

Jack Rodwell is in talks over the possibility of a Premier League return with Watford

Once one of the bright young stars coming out of Everton's youth set-up, earning a move to Manchester City after impressing at Goodison Park, Rodwell's career has spiralled frantically ever since.

He has a Premier League winner's medal and over 150 top flight appearances, but fell out of favour in the blue half of Manchester due to the ever-changing managerial structures at the country's biggest clubs.

The 27-year-old is without a club after the mutual termination of contract at Sunderland

He was offloaded to Sunderland, where he has been relegated twice and also fallen out of favour there too. After the termination of his contract, he will be looking to rebuild his career sooner rather than later, no doubt.

Watford, meanwhile, are also interested in signing Egypt international Tarek Hamed. The 29-year-old plays for Zamalek and would cost around £1.5m. He figured for his country in all their games at the World Cup.