Watford failed with an approach to sign Manchester United's Phil Jones, according to a report.
The central defender has made 225 appearances for the Red Devils during his stint with the club, but a series of injuries saw him drop out of favour, and he only made one appearance in the last 18 months.
Meanwhile, the Hornets have conceded 40 goals so far this season in the Premier League, with only Newcastle United and Norwich City having let in more so far.
According to Football Insider, Roy Hodgson had sanctioned a late move to sign Jones, but that is not something that ended up taking place, with Manchester United knocking it back.
The new Hornets boss is a big fan of the defender from their time with England where the Red Devils star was chosen to be part of Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup.
Hodgson will be in charge of Watford for the first time on Saturday when they face Burnley in a crucial Premier League fixture.
