Watford is reportedly set to part ways with head coach Paulo Pezzolano just five months after his appointment. Sources indicate that the club's management is in decisive talks regarding the future of the 42-year-old Uruguayan, with former Watford manager Javi Gracia being the leading candidate to replace him. Gracia, who managed Watford from January 2018 to September 2019, is expected to arrive in England for negotiations.

Pezzolano, who took charge on May 13, had a mixed start in the Championship despite significant transfer market support. Watford collected only five points from their first six league games but gained seven points from the last three, moving them three points from the playoff zone. Despite a 2-1 victory over Oxford, Pezzolano could become the club's third-shortest serving manager.

Owner Gino Pozzo has high ambitions for Premier League promotion, making Gracia a likely choice due to his previous success, including keeping Watford in the top flight in 2018 and reaching the FA Cup final the following season. Currently, Watford sits 11th in the Championship, with three wins, three draws, and three losses, and was eliminated in the first round of the League Cup by Norwich City.