Watford boss offers fresh update on Chelsea and Spurs January transfer target Richarlison

Marco Silva has shed light on the transfer status of Watford's Brazilian youngster Richarlison, a summer signing for the Hornets from Fluminense.

Despite only arriving in England back in July the 20-year-old has already made an impact in the Premier League with five goals and four assists in 14 league appearances, a rate of 0.64 goals scored or created per game, or just over a goal every two games.

His early form has already seen him linked with a switch to a number of clubs including Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.

Watford drew 1-1 with Spurs at the weekend and speaking in his press conference following the match Silva laid out his position with regards to his young star's transfer situation.

"For us as a club it is important to keep our best players," he said. "It's normal. We know our players are doing well and some are improving a lot. It's normal other clubs pay attention to them."

However, he did hint that a deal could be brokered by the Hornets by his paymasters and admitted that they do not need to seek his authorisation to sell the player.

"It's that it's the club's decision," added Silva. "The owner will decide what is best."

The top brass at Vicarage Road have already had to fend off interest in one of their key assets this season.

Watford even threatened to make a complaint over the nature of their opponent's approach for the 40-year-old with Sam Allardyce eventually taking on the role at Goodison Park.

If Richarlison is to leave before the end of the season he will cost a significant sum but his mature displays may convinced one of Chelsea, Spurs or his other suitors to make an audacious move to secure his services going into 2018.