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          Watford sign defender Marvin Zeegelaar from Sporting Lisbon

          • PA Sport
          Aug 31, 2017, 12:42 PM

          Watford have announced the signing of Dutch defender Marvin Zeegelaar from Sporting Lisbon.

          The 27-year-old has signed a four-year deal at Vicarage Road to strengthen manager Marco Silva's options at left-back.

          The position was becoming a problem for the new Hornets boss following Jose Holebas' red card in the League Cup defeat to Bristol City.

          A move for Kieran Gibbs broke down as the England international joined West Brom from Arsenal and Zeegelaar has instead been brought in.

          "Watford FC is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Marvin Zeegelaar from Sporting Lisbon on a four-year deal," a statement on the club's website read.

          "The left-back made 37 appearances for the 18-time Portuguese champions during 2016-17, including five in the UEFA Champions League.

          "The Dutchman, who came through the ranks at Ajax Amsterdam, will wear the number 22 shirt for the Hornets."

          The arrival of Zeegelaar -- who has experience in England having spent a short time on loan at Blackpool -- is added to the earlier arrival of goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis.

          The 32-year-old will provide competition for Heurelho Gomes for the starting spot in goal for Watford as the club have now recruited 12 new signings during the current transfer window.

          "Watford FC is delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis on a season-long loan from Udinese," the club's statement read.

          "The experienced Greece cap will join up with Marco Silva's squad on his return from international duty, providing competition for the number one jersey.

          "The 32-year-old has made over 100 appearances for Udinese since joining the Italian outfit from Panathinaikos in 2013."

          Two signings became three as Udinese defender Molla Wague joined on a season-long loan.

          The 26-year-old has won 25 caps for Mali and made one appearance while on loan at Leicester during the last campaign.