Will Hughes is yet to sign a new contract with Watford despite the offer of a new five-year deal.

The midfielder was a pivotal part of the Hornets' transformation under Xisco Munoz, especially after he was restored to his preferred position in the centre.

However, contract negotiations have reached a tender stage with the player and his representatives uneasy about agreeing to the offer that is currently on the table.

Discussions continue between the club and Hughes' agent, whom the player has entrusted to get the best deal possible.

That is not to say that the 26-year-old is desperately searching for a way out.

Back in May he said that extending his stay at Vicarage Road was something he was keen to do.

“I’m really happy here, I’m settled, back in the Premier League. There’s nothing better and that’s how I want it to remain. It’s as simple as that,” he said at the time. “There’s no thoughts in my head about not me moving elsewhere.

“That’s in my agent’s and the club’s hands. That’s not something I’m really concerned about and it’s not something that I’ve really thought about. I’ll give my all for Watford until my contract is up.”

With his current contract expiring at the end of the season, it could be that Watford choose to cash in on a player who no doubt has a great deal of both talent and potential, rather than allow him to leave for free in a year's time.

Aston Villa are continuing to monitor the situation, while Newcastle United's interest is likely to be hampered by their financial constraints.

For now, an end to the impasse seems further away, with Hughes and his representatives interested in exploring what options are available before making any decisions.