Bouazza clinches Fulham move

The 22-year-old Algerian forward, who was the Hornets' top scorer last season with seven goals, has signed a four-year deal and the Cottagers will make an initial payment of £3million with a further £1million based on appearances and divisional status.

Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd told the club's official website: "We're disappointed to lose him because I wanted to keep him in the squad for this season. Sometimes though you have to weigh up the money on offer and the value a player brings to the squad who wouldn't necessarily be starting each and every week."

He added: "He is definitely a terrific player in my eyes but has got an awful long way to go to be all he can be in his career."

Bouazza told Fulham's official website, www.fulhamfc.co.uk: "I'm really pleased to have joined Fulham.

"I spoke to the manager briefly on Tuesday and hopefully I'll get the chance to have a long chat with him today. It's been a long wait and I'm just happy to be here and I'm looking forward to getting out on the training pitch.

"I've got a few days training to settle in and hopefully I'll be involved on Sunday against Arsenal. It's going to be a big game and we've got to make sure we do our jobs out on the pitch and make a good start to the season."

Cottagers boss Lawrie Sanchez believes Bouazza will offer a different attacking option.

"Hameur is an exciting young player with a great deal of potential," he said. "His attributes as a player fit in with my philosophy to play attacking, exciting football next season.

"He will provide further pace and attacking guile to our frontline and I'm delighted that he has signed for the club."