Watford have completed the signing of former Liverpool and Manchester City winger Albert Riera on a short-term contract, with the player joining Udinese permanently in the summer.

The 31-year-old, who can also play at left back, was unattached after leaving Turkish club Galatasaray in January.

Udinese have confirmed Riera will join them in July but we understand there is a good chance the player could remain with Watford next season if all parties agree.

Riera finalised the move yesterday and is training with his new team-mates for the first time today.

The Hornets have lacked experience this season and the club were keen to add another older player following the departure of Lucas Neill yesterday.

Watford, who usually play in a 3-5-2, are also short of wing-backs as Marco Cassetti has often been used at centre half and Ikechi Anya has been playing up front due to injuries.

Watford are awaiting international clearance on the signing.

The Hornets will be Riera’s eighth club and his third in England. He's previously had spells with both Manchester City and Liverpool.

Riera, who has 16 caps for Spain, can play either as a left midfielder or a left wing-back.

Most recently, the 31-year-old turned out for Roberto Mancini’s Galatasaray. He joined the Turkish club for just under £2.5m in 2011 and had made 13 appearances this season before departing in January. 

Riera, who was linked with a move to Premier League club West Bromwich Albion before joining Watford, made his debut in 2001 for RCD Mallorca,

He originally started as a striker before moving to a left midfield role.