1:10pm Wednesday 30th June 2010
By Frank Smith
Watford say they hope Carlisle United defender Tom Aldred will complete his move to Vicarage Road tomorrow.
The Hornets have confirmed they are in discussions with the centre back and are “hopeful” the 19-year-old will sign tomorrow.
Bolton-born Aldred is out of contract after rejecting a one-year deal from Carlisle but the Hornets will need to pay the League One side compensation due to the Scotland Under-19 international being under 24 years of age.
The two clubs were in a similar situation last summer after Danny Graham’s move to Vicarage Road but it is unlikely the fee for Aldred will be as much due to the 6ft 2 defender only making four starts for Carlisle.
We understand Aldred completed his medical with the Hornets yesterday and just needs to agree terms.
Carlisle boss Greg Abbott had hoped Aldred would remain with the club despite him rejecting what the player’s agent described as a “poor” one-year contract.
Colchester United, who are managed by former Carlisle boss and ex-Watford assistant manager Jon Ward, were also keen to sign the youngster but it looks like the Hornets are set to secure his signature in the next 24 to 48 hours.
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