Mario Gaspar: Watford sign former Villarreal defender

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, The length of Mario Gaspar's deal at Watford has not been disclosed

Watford have signed former Villarreal defender Mario Gaspar.

The 31-year-old was released by the Spanish side yesterday after making more than 400 appearances over 13 years.

Last season he featured 18 times in all competitions, coming off the bench in their Uefa Super Cup defeat by Chelsea.

In 2021, the ex-Spain international helped Villarreal beat Manchester United on penalties in the Europa League final.

Mario scored two goals in three appearances for his country, with his last cap for La Roja coming in 2016.

He left Villarreal as the third-highest appearance maker in the club's history and his signing for Watford comes a day after Kiko Femenia made the move in the opposite direction.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Watford forward Kwadwo Baah has made a season-long loan more to German second tier side Fortuna Dusseldorf.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.