Watford have agreed a move - in principle - with Chievo defender Nicolas Frey according to reports in Italy.

The Hornets have reportedly reached an agreement with the experienced Frenchman, whose contract expires in the summer, but Chievo have the option of extending by another year.

Respected Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio revealed the deal and explained the switch to England will be dependant on Chievo's willingness to let the player leave, rather than activating a further year.

Frey, the younger brother of ex-Inter Milan and Parma goalkeeper Sebastien, is 30 years old and can play in the centre or on the right of defence.

He started his career at Cannes before spending a decade in Italy. Frey moved to Legnano in 2004 and after a year switched to Modena, before joining Chievo in 2008.

Frey worked under current Hornets head coach Beppe Sannino at the start of this season before the Italian was sacked.