WATFORD, ENGLAND - APRIL 6: Watford's Wesley Hoedt is tackled by Preston North End's Emil Riis Jakobsen during the Sky Bet Championship match between Watford and Preston North End at Vicarage Road on April 6, 2024 in Watford, England.(Photo by Lee Parker - CameraSport via Getty Images)

Turkish media reports that Trabzonspor have abandoned their pursuit of Watford defender Wesley Hoedt.

Wesley Hoedt of Watford and Ali Al-Hamadi of Ipswich Town tangle during the Sky Bet Championship match between Ipswich Town and Watford at Portman...

Recent reports suggest that Trabzonspor, who had been linked with Watford defender Wesley Hoedt, have shifted their focus to another central defender.

According to Haber Anlik, Trabzonspor are now pursuing Zorya Luhansk’s Arseniy Batagov. The Turkish club is reportedly in negotiations to sign the 22-year-old and has agreed on a transfer fee of €2.5 million with his current team.

Adam Armstrong of Southampton shoots under pressure from Wesley Hoedt of Watford during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round Replay match between...

Since the arrival of Stefan Savić earlier in the transfer window, Trabzonspor have been looking to bring in a partner for the former Manchester City player. Hoedt was their first choice, but despite four offers from the Turkish side they couldn’t finalise an agreement with Watford.

Hoedt was reportedly keen to sign for the Trabzon club, with claims he’d agreed personal terms with them. There was also concern last week within the Super Lig side’s camp when the defender picked up a knee injury in Watford’s pre-season loss to Wycombe Wanderers.