Report: Watford braced for Troy Deeney offers

Watford are preparing themselves for a summer-long battle to keep hold of Troy Deeney amid reported interest in their star striker from across England.

The 25-year-old's reputation has soared following consecutive 20-plus goal seasons in Watford's failed efforts to secure a return to the Premier League.

Sky Sports News reports that Fulham, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest are among the clubs that want to sign Deeney to increase their firepower for their own respective promotion pushes.

However, he already has admirers in the top flight, with Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Swansea City all believed to be keen to strengthen their forward ranks with the former Walsall frontman.

Watford do not want to sell Deeney, but realise that they will struggle to persuade him to stay.