Hughes’ contract at Vicarage Road expires next summer and the midfielder has refused to sign a new deal.
As such, Hughes has become a player of interest for both Crystal Palace and Newcastle United.
The Eagles have entered negotiations with Watford regarding the midfielder as boss Patrick Vieira hopes to bolster things in the middle of the park.
Crystal Palace are hoping to get across the finish line before Newcastle in their pursuit of Hughes.
One thing that may work in the Eagles’ favour is that there is no consensus at St. James Park regarding Hughes as some at the club advise against moving for the midfielder, despite manager Steve Bruce being an admirer of the Watford player.
The Eagles have alternatives to consider too, as they are also in the hunt for Leeds United-targeted Huddersfield Town midfielder Lewis O’Brien and Manchester City starlet Morgan Rodgers.
Hughes has made over 100 appearances in all competitions for the Hornets, 77 of which came in the Premier League, and he has ample experience in the top flight.
