Watford have reportedly joined the race to join 22-year-old Malian starlet Fousseni Diabate, with Southampton and Real Betis said to be among the other sides watching the Gazelec Ajaccio attacker.

Diabate has been used up front and out wide by the second-tier club this season, netting three goals in 18 appearances in what is his first stint in senior professional football.

Teams from across Europe have travelled to watch the player, with Werder Bremen, Rennes, the Saints and Betis bringing the contingent of countries up to four in the pursuit of his signature.

Watford reportedly saw Diabate play recently as they keep an eye on him for a January move - but it is not clear whether the player would qualify, or require, a work permit given his non-European background.