Watford are considering a bid for Fulham left-back Joe Bryan as they deal with an injury crisis across their entire defence.
Adding a player to the left side of his defence is the priority for Nigel Pearson in January and the Hornets have scouted Bryan on a number of occasions over the last two months.
The former Bristol City defender, a £6m signing only 18 months ago, has made 27 appearances for the Cottagers this season and scored his first league goal for Fulham against Wigan in September.
Watford have a long list of defensive injuries including long-term absentees Sebastian Prodl (shin) and Daryl Janmaat (ankle).
Kiko Femenia (hamstring) and Jose Holebas (ankle) have also been missing, while Craig Cathcart suffered a knee injury against Wolves and Christian Kabasele has been out through suspension.