Watford to make Nicola Salerno sporting director?

Nicola Salerno will reportedly be appointed the new sporting director of Watford after vacating the same role at Leeds United.

Leeds confirmed earlier today that the Italian has left Elland Road by mutual consent after less than a year with the Yorkshire outfit.

Watford won promotion from the Championship last term and are preparing for their first Premier League campaign in nine seasons.

According to Sport Italia, Watford owners the Pozzo family are fans of Salerno's work and are keen to bring him to Vicarage Road.

The Pozzos are said to be hopeful that the 58-year-old's contacts will help them to recruit wisely ahead of their top-flight return.

Salerno has also served as sporting director at Serie A side Cagliari.