Watford have lodged an official complaint with the Premier League over Everton’s alleged tapping up of their former head coach Marco Silva.

The two clubs have been engaged in meetings to try and find a solution to issue, and the Premier League is eager for an amicable conclusion to be reached.

Watford believe Silva’s focus was turned away from matters at Vicarage Road by Everton’s continued approaches, which began in November and included an offer of a reported £20 million in compensation being made.

The Hornets and Silva, who was relieved of his duties in January, are in a legal dispute, with Silva claiming he was sacked prematurely and is owed six months’ salary amounting to £750,000.

With no sign of a solution to the dispute, a commission may now be set up to settle the matter and a fine or points deduction could be handed out.

Watford cited Everton’s approach as the main reason behind their dismissal of Silva after an 11 game winless run which saw the Hornets dragged into a relegation scrap.

“This has been a difficult decision and one not taken lightly," the statement read.

“The Club is convinced the appointment of Silva was the right one and had it not been for the unwarranted approach by a Premier League rival for his services we would have continued to prosper under his leadership.

"The catalyst is that approach, something which the board believes has seen a significant deterioration in both focus and results to the point where the long-term future of Watford has been jeopardised.”

Sam Allardyce took the reins at Everton after the Toffees failed to secure a deal for Silva but the former England boss looks certain to be relieved of his duties.

A decision on Allardyce’s future is expected by the end of the week and Everton are keen to make Silva their new boss.