Crystal Palace are unlikely to recruit Watford standout Rocco Vata in the January transfer window as he continues his recovery from a significant injury.
The former Celtic prodigy suffered a hamstring issue against Middlesbrough last month and is set for months on the treatment table, putting an end to any chatter about his future.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, any suggestions that the 20-year-old could depart in January are off the mark, although talk regarding his future will probably restart in next summer’s transfer window.
Crystal Palace are among several Premier League sides who have been impressed by his performances this season, although they will have to wait before pursuing a deal.
This follows Mick Brown telling Football Insider that Crystal Palace want to secure the best Championship prospects following the success of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.
Rocco Vata to stay at Watford after injury update:
Watford are reluctant to part ways with Vata anytime soon and have placed a hefty valuation on him amid rising Premier League interest.
Crystal Palace have built a reputation for snapping up Championship talent, while Vata was linked with Nottingham Forest in 2024, and their interest has persisted.
However, as he continues his rehabilitation from the hamstring injury sustained last month, no movement is anticipated towards a deal in the near term.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “There’s no chance he’s going to leave Watford in January.
“He’s out injured until late January so I don’t see any club paying that type of money for Rocco Vata as he just returns from a long-term injury so nothing’s going to happen in January.
“He had a bright start to the season with Watford, there’s no doubt about that, picked up two goals and two assists in ten games as he made a good impact.
“Obviously, the injury has held him back and he’s not expected back until late January at the earliest, so any of the interested clubs will pursue a move.
“Even if there is Premier League interest in him, I don’t see any imminent move for Rocco Vata right now.”
Crystal Palace plan to support Oliver Glasner in January:
Oliver Glasner is determined to reinforce his squad amid ongoing concerns about the depth behind his starting XI, especially as fixture congestion becomes more demanding.
As a result, Brown told Football Insider last month that Crystal Palace are preparing to back Glasner by adding to his squad as they aim for another strong campaign.
This comes after Football Insider revealed in August that Glasner was left disappointed at Crystal Palace due to their challenging summer transfer window.
Following Palace’s 2-1 loss to Strasbourg in the Conference League, the manager doubled down on his calls for the club to invest, with attacking additions high on his priority list.
Vata remains one of the names on their shortlist, but with a January move now improbable, the Eagles will be forced to evaluate alternative options to enhance the squad.