The Hornets transfer embargo has been lifted and the club will announce the signing of seven new players shortly, the Watford Observer understands.

We understand an administrative error relating to club finances, from before the club's takeover, meant an embargo was in place.

But that has now been lifted and the free transfers of Manuel Almunia and Fitz Hall, and the loan signings of Daniel Pudil, Almen Abdi, Ikechi Anya, Matej Vydra and Steve Leo Beleck, will be announced shortly.

The Football League and Watford both refused to comment on whether the club’s lack of signings was due to a transfer embargo when we asked last week.

When asked why there has been such a long delay in announcing signings, Watford chief executive Scott Duxbury said: “There has been an extensive evaluation process ongoing since the start of pre-season involving a number of players – some of whom have featured in the friendly matches played so far.

“Official announcements and confirmations will be communicated via watfordfc.com, the club’s website, when it is appropriate to do so.”

The Watford Observer contacted the Football League and the Hornets on Wednesday to ask if the club were subject to a transfer embargo due to either the takeover or the Golden Boys’ HM Revenue & Customs bill. Both refused to confirm or deny.

Watford stated the club’s takeover has been fully ratified by the Football League but they refused to comment on whether they have paid their HMRC bill and how much the sum is.

The Watford Observer revealed the club had a pending HMRC bill back in June, but former owner Laurence Bassini denied this was the case.