Talks over a move for Watford to sign midfielder James Lea Siliki from Rennes have stalled, a report from The Watford Observer has claimed.

It had recently been reported by L'Equipe that Siliki was keen on a move to Watford amid interest from the Hornets, with Rennes opening to let the 24-year-old leave on loan with the option to buy.

However, it seems as though a move may be off, as a result of issues the two clubs have encountered in the past.

According to this latest update, Rennes are reluctant to let Siliki move to Watford, because they are unhappy with the Championship club over a payment they feel they are owed as part of the deal that took Ismaila Sarr from the Ligue 1 side to Vicarage Road.

Consequentially, it is now thought that a deal Siliki is unlikely to happen before the market closes on Monday, but not impossible just yet.

Watford have also missed out on another midfield target, having reportedly been keen on Henri Lansbury, who has now completed a move to their Championship rivals Bristol City.

The Verdict

This will be something of a concern for Watford.

Siliki could certainly have been a useful asset for the Hornets, and it will be frustrating if they do miss out on this deal as a result of a historic piece of business.

Given they have also missed out on Lansbury, it does seem as though midfield is an area they are keen to strengthen in this month, so the possible failure to get two players over the line in that position will be a concern.

However, there are still other options they could turn, and you feel they may have to be assessing some of those now, following this latest update.