Quique Sanchez Flores says Juan Iturbe has the characteristics of a Watford player but refused to confirm his interest despite Roma’s sporting director admitting negotiations had begun.

Speaking to the Italian press Roma’s sport director, Walter Sabatini, revealed talks over the Argentine winger had begun.

“For Iturbe, there are negotiations in course with Watford,” he told Rete Sport.

But Flores was reluctant to discuss the 22-year-old wideman when asked this morning.

However, he admitted the Paraguayan international would fit into the existing squad at Vicarage Road.

“I think he has the characteristics of a Watford player,” said Flores.

“He has power, he plays well inside and outside of the box and we need these kind of players.

“Maybe if this player comes we will talk about the characteristics of Iturbe. But at the moment he belongs to Roma.”

Roma are reportedly demanding a £1.1 million loan fee for Iturbe in January with the option to buy the player permanently at the end of the season for £15 million.

I Giallorisso are keen to recoup as much for the £17.4 million they paid Hellas Verona for Iturbe in 2014.

In his solitary season with Verona Iturbe netted eight times in 33 outings. But he has failed to replicate that form in the Eternal City.