Morocco youngster Othmane Maamma set to join Watford from Montpellier

Moroccan international Othmane Maamma is on the verge of joining English Championship club Watford from French side Montpellier.

The 19-year-old winger is set to sign a long-term contract after both clubs agreed on a transfer fee.

Maamma made an impression last season in Ligue 1, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist across 14 appearances, despite Montpellier’s relegation to Ligue 2.

The Moroccan U21 international had also drawn interest from German Bundesliga club Freiburg, who reportedly offered around $3.25 million to secure the final two years of his contract.

However, Watford acted swiftly to clinch the deal, aiming to bolster their squad as they push for promotion back to the Premier League.

Primarily operating as a right-winger but versatile enough to play across the frontline, Maamma is expected to be Watford’s first major signing under new manager Tom Cleverley following the club’s 14th-place finish last season.

Meanwhile, Watford are also close to finalizing a $5.5 million deal for Metz forward Papa Diallo, with negotiations reportedly at an advanced stage.