Why Josh King would be a brilliant signing for Javi Gracia’s Watford
Back in March, Watford were plotting a summer swoop for Bournemouth striker, Josh King. However, the links have cooled down in recent months.
The Norwegian international, 27, has enjoyed another fine season under Eddie Howe at the Vitality Stadium, scoring 12 goals in the top-flight with the Cherries managing a 14th placed finish.
The 27-year-old, who joined Bournemouth in 2015, has formed a thrilling front four with Callum Wilson, David Brooks and Ryan Fraser.
Given Josh King’s solid last season with Bournemouth, Watford must revive their interest in the striker and sign him before Thursday’s deadline. Watford had made a very promising start to the previous season and looked set to achieve the Europa League spot last season.
However, they got distracted by their fantastic FA Cup run which ultimately ended up being a disappointment. The Hornets finished 11th in the table, yet Javi Gracia deserves a lot of credit for that.
Gracia hasn’t made a lot of signings in the summer transfer window, but if his team are to compete with the likes of Wolves, Everton, West Ham and Leicester City, he’ll need to add some more players before the window slams shut later this week.
An area which needs reinforcing is the striking department, with skipper Troy Deeney having turned 31 and the likes of Andre Gray and Isaac Success good to have from the bench.
Stefano Okaka is likely to be sold this summer. In the long run, though, getting Okaka off of their books as quickly as possible is a smart move, but that will leave Gracia short in options upfront.
Thus, a move for Josh King would make a lot of sense for the Hornets. Josh King would certainly represent a smart signing and would demonstrate that Watford are serious about maintaining their recent progress.
The Norwegian can lead the line but is generally used as a second striker by Eddie Howe, so he could form a lethal partnership with Troy Deeney upfront.
Deeney can use his physicality and hold-up play to bring someone like King into the game. King’s quick feet and dribbling skills help him get away from his marker and create some space for himself before having a pop at goal or creating a chance for his teammate.
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The ex-Manchester United starlet’s composure in front of goal is really good and with the likes of Will Hughes, Gerard Deulofeu and Roberto Pereyra around him, King can be a real asset to Gracia’s Watford.
Verdict
King would also arrive at Vicarage Road with plenty of top-flight experience, making him a wise investment for Gracia at this time. All in all, the Norwegian international’s acquisition would potentially bolster Watford’s hopes of achieving a European spot next year.