Watford have missed out on transfer target Zdravko Kuzmanović after Swiss club FC Basel confirmed the midfielder has re-joined them on a five-year contract.

The Hornets had been hoping to complete a move for Kuzmanovic that may have developed into a reported €10 million double deal also involving his Internazionale teammate Davide Santon.

But the Serbian international midfielder, who began his senior career at Basel, has told the club’s website he is delighted to have returned to the club.

“It has always been my goal to go back one day to FCB,” explained the 27-year-old. “I am happy that the discussions proceeded swiftly. I am motivated and very ambitious and want to make my contribution to further the success of FCB.”

Although the Golden Boys have missed out on Kuzmanović, they may still be in with a chance of signing Santon. The Italian only returned to Inter in February of this year and despite recently expressing his desire to remain in Milan via social media, it has been reported that Watford remain hopeful of persuading the former Newcastle United man to return to England.