Sky Sports understands that rumours of Newcastle United bidding £7million for Watford defender Craig Cathcart are untrue. There were reports that the Championship club had made their move for the Northern Ireland international.
Since joining from Blackpool in 2014, Cathcart has played over 60 times for the Hornets. He played a key role in helping the club reach the Premier League a year after he made the move.
Rafa Benitez could still maintain such an interest in the 27-year-old. Whilst it has been confirmed they have made no bid now, it doesn’t necessarily mean they won’t return.
Atletico Madrid full back Jesus Gamez is expected to sign for the club in the coming days. Cathcart has also played at right back before, although he is more naturally a centre back. The Magpies are looking to replace the now departed Fabricio Coloccini. He returned to Argentina to play for San Lorenzo.
The ex-Man Utd youngster played every game for Northern Ireland at Euro 2016 this summer. That included a 2-0 victory against Ukraine in the group stages. A defeat to semi-finals Wales saw them exit the competition on June 25th. He is expected to return to pre-season training with Watford, and they’re now managed by Walter Mazzarri.
