Watford are watching Sporting CP goalkeeper Rui Patricio.

The Watford Observer says Watford have reportedly sent scouts to watch him in action as they look for a replacement for Heurelho Gomes, who has been the Hornets' first-choice goalkeeper since 2014.

While Gomes has been in fine form in recent weeks, he turned 36 last month and has already been forced off by injury twice this season.

The 56 time-capped stopper told A Bola yesterday he did not know whether he would finish his career with the club.

Watford boss Walter Mazzarri is known to have little faith in regular back-up Costel Pantilimon to replace the Brazilian, and tried to complete moves for both Tim Krul and Asmir Begovic in the January transfer window.