An emotional Marc Navarro is ready to embark on a new journey with Watford after joining the Hornets from much-loved club Espanyol.

Watford announced the signing of the 22-year-old for an undisclosed fee on Friday – a deal which saw the full-back become the club’s third summer arrival.

Having spent his entire professional career at the Barcelona-based club, Navarro departs with a certain amount of emotion but says he is ready for the next stage of his career.

“I arrived here as a child, and I grew as a player and as a person with the dream of being able to defend these colours,” Navarro wrote of his former club on twitter.

“After six seasons it is time to say goodbye to the club of my life, to face a new challenge in my career.

“I am leaving with the chance a new project and new objectives, but I will be thankful to this club and I will encourage you from a distance.

“I will always take you in my heart. Thank you for making me part of this wonderful minority.”

A Barcelona youth product, Navarro, who can play as a right-back, in the centre of defence and even in midfield, joined Espanyol in 2011 and has developed a close bond to the club.

He took the chance to pay tribute to those at the RCDE Stadium for helping him turn his ambitions into a reality.

“Thanks to all the people that make this club so special, I was able to achieve my dream,” he said.

“I can’t forget my colleagues who welcomed me from the first moment and have always supported me and helped me, you are great.”

Navarro will provide competition on the right side of Watford’s defence where he is joined by Daryl Janmaat and compatriot Kiko Femenia as an option.

His versatility will appeal to Javi Gracia after a 2017/18 season in which Watford struggled to cope with a number of injuries at various points throughout the campaign.

He joins Ben Wilmot in providing fresh options at the back for the Watford boss, while Gerard Deulofeu’s signing adds quality in attack.

Speaking to the Watford website, Navarro reiterated his desire to get started at Watford and his delight at agreeing a switch to the Premier League side.

He said: “I am really proud to be part of this great club. I am very happy to join the Hornets,” he said.

“I can’t wait to play in Vicarage Road with Watford and enjoy the amazing atmosphere from our fans.”