Nampalys Mendy is preparing to continue his career in the English Championship, with the Senegalese midfielder set to sign for Watford following his departure from RC Lens.
The 33-year-old, who has been without a club since the end of his contract in northern France, will join the Hornets on a one-year contract, with the option of extending for a further season.
The deal is expected to be finalised in the coming days, according to reports.
Mendy endured a difficult campaign at Lens, where he was used sparingly throughout last season. A move to Watford now offers him the chance to regain rhythm and secure more regular playing time in a league renowned for its intensity and competitiveness.
Trained at Monaco, Mendy later represented Nice, Leicester City, and Guingamp, amassing considerable experience in both Ligue 1 and the Premier League.
His return to England will reunite him with familiar surroundings, having previously spent six years at Leicester, where he was part of the squad that lifted the FA Cup in 2021.
Despite his understated profile, Mendy has built a reputation as a disciplined and reliable midfielder, known for his ball-winning ability and positional awareness.
His international pedigree further underlines his value: he was part of Senegal’s victorious Africa Cup of Nations campaign in 2022, cementing his place as a trusted figure in Aliou Cissé’s squad.
Watford, who finished 15th in the Championship last season, are seeking to bolster their squad with players who combine top-level experience and leadership qualities.
The addition of Mendy aligns with that strategy, providing stability in midfield while guiding a relatively young group of players.
Head coach Tom Cleverley is looking to strengthen ahead of the new campaign, with the club targeting a push up the table and a long-term ambition of returning to the Premier League.
Mendy’s presence is expected to add balance in midfield and offer a level of calm authority in high-pressure matches.
For the player, the move represents not only a fresh challenge but also an opportunity to extend his career at a competitive level. Having featured in both French and English top-flight football, he brings with him a wealth of experience that could prove vital in navigating the demands of a gruelling Championship season.
If the deal is completed as anticipated, Mendy will join Watford with the immediate aim of settling quickly into the squad and re-establishing himself as a consistent performer.
His ability to read the game, combined with years of experience at the highest level, make him a strong candidate to become a key figure in the Hornets’ midfield.
The signing reflects Watford’s determination to blend youthful energy with seasoned professionals as they prepare for the challenges ahead. For Mendy, it is a chance to reignite his career in England and reaffirm his reputation as a dependable presence on the pitch.
