Marco Silva's reported interest in striker Oumar Niasse, who he managed at Hull City last season, was never more than "paper talk", according to sources close to the player.

The 27-year-old scored four times for Silva's Tigers in 12 starts last season, during a loan spell from Everton where he has been long-since deemed surplus to requirements.

But despite the Hornets' desire to sign a new striker, the Watford head coach has cast his attention elsewhere with Richarlison close to signing in a £13 million deal, and no enquiry ever made for Niasse.

Instead, sources close to the player have revealed the Senegal forward is likely to sign for Premier League new-boys Brighton.