Watford have turned down a bid from Premier League newcomers Reading for Adrian Mariappa.
The 25-year old defender was the subject of frenzied interest from top flight clubs in January but the Hornets managed to hold onto him and are determined to do so again.
The Royals recently tabled an offer for Mariappa but the Watford hierarchy rejected the overtures as they strive to keep last season's Player of the Year at Vicarage Road.