Watford are working on obtaining a work permit for new signing Yaser Asprilla after he officially joined the club from Envigado.

The Colombian is viewed by Hornets' chiefs as a hugely talented prospect and one who they believe will be playing in the Premier League in the near future. One club source described him as "outstanding". 

Those views are reflected in his home nation where he became the second youngest player to appear for the national side, aged 18 years and 58 days against Honduras on Sunday.

During his time as a senior player for Envigado, he scored five goals and provided one assist in 22 appearances. He is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also play out wide.

 

The starlet agreed a deal with Watford back in August, similar to that which saw Joao Pedro join from Fluminense, and has now officially on the club's books.

Asprilla had been with Envigado since the age of 11 and was given a warm send off by the Colombian side, who were delighted to see him being offered a chance in England.

Announcing his departure, they said:" We are pleased to announce that Yaser Asprilla is a new player for Watford Football Club, an English Premier League team.

"He has been wearing these colours since he was 11 years old, went through all the training processes and stood out with remarkable conditions, which led him to make his professional debut on December 2, 2020. The midfielder born in Bajo Baudó, Chocó 18 years ago, also received the called by the Colombian National Team to play the friendly match against Honduras in January 2022.

"It is an honor for Envigado Fútbol Club to see a youth squad player make the leap to such important football. We wish you all the success and the best on this journey that begins.

"Come on Yaser."

However, getting a permit for Asprilla in England is something that requires some planning and the Watford Observer understands that work is currently being currently carried out to find the best solution.

Overseas players now need to accumulate a total of 15 points from six different categories in order to be granted a permit and Asprilla may not yet meet the threshold.

His first senior appearance for Colombia at the weekend will have done his case no harm, especially given his nation's current FIFA world ranking of 16, but playing for Envigado in the Categoría Primera A for all of his brief career will not have helped. Neither will the fact that Envigado finished ninth in the table last season.

A full explanation of the points system can be found here.

In order for him to gain the necessary points he needs to be able to play in England, it is likely a loan will be required.

Reports from Colombia suggest he could be set to stay there for the time being, with a move to a club like Deportivo Cali or Deportes Tolima one that could allow him to get to the 15 point mark due to their participation in the Copa Libertadores.

A loan to Europe is also a possibility, and Udinese has naturally been considered as an option for a temporary switch that would suit the Hornets.

Nothing definitive has been decided as of yet.