By Fraser Fletcher, Transfer Correspondent

12th Apr, 2023 | 7:10am

Sources: Watford to sack Chris Wilder, make contact with 34-year-old to replace him

Watford have made contact with highly-rated Italian manager Francesco Farioli as they seek replacements to manager Chris Wilder, sources have told Football Insider.

The former Sheffield United boss is now expected to be sacked after a poor run of form has seen his side drop to 12th in the Championship table.

Football Insider understands that the club want to make wholesale changes in for next season and Wilder will lose his job at Vicarage Road.

The Watford board are now making moves to organise replacements and set up for a challenge at promotion next season.

Farioli, 34, is a highly-rated young manager and Watford face competition from Braga over his signature.

He has recently left Turkish Super Lig club Alanyaspor after a spell which seen him praised for his style of play and achieving high league positions with a club expected to fight relegation.

Rangers also spoke with Farioli before hiring current boss Michael Beale and were highly impressed with the young coach, placing him on their list of potential future managers.

Watford fans have been very critical of Wilder and his flagging team’s performances, which has pushed the board into action.

The club are six points adrift of the final promotion place, with just five matches of their Championship campaign to play.

In other news, Newcastle United have ‘concrete’ interest in Watford player after bid tabled