Owls in talks with Hornets over Pudil

Sheffield Wednesday want to turn Daniel Pudil's loan move into a permanent transfer, The Star can reveal.
Carlos Carvalhal with Daniel PudilCarlos Carvalhal with Daniel Pudil
Carlos Carvalhal with Daniel Pudil

The Czech Republic international has been a big hit with the club’s supporters since arriving on loan from Premier League side Watford.

And it is understood the Owls, who have recently agree new contracts with Jack Hunt, Barry Bannan, Atdhe Nuhiu, Glenn Loovens and Sam Hutchinson, have held discussions with the Hornets over signing Pudil on a full-time basis.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It is no scret Pudil is keen to remain at Hillsborough after producing a string of impressive performances in Wednesday’s play-off challenge.

The 30-year-old, who has netted two goals in 23 outings for the Owls, said: “My family and I have found friends and everyone in Sheffield is really friendly. The city is great and that’s why I want to stay for the next couple of years.

“We don’t want to move anywhere else.”

Speaking at his press briefing yesterday, head coach Carlos Carvalhal admitted he is a big admirer of Pudil.

“Daniel is a good player,” he said. “He has a good balance between the defensive and offensive aspects of the game.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He is a fantastic personality, very experienced and we are very happy with him.”

Wednesday are also locked in talks with Norwich over retaining Gary Hooper’s services. The striker has grabbed four goals in his last appearances. The former Celtic player is set to return to Carrow Road following tomorrow’s Yorkshire derby clash with Leeds United at Hillsborough.

Canaries boss Alex Neil said: “There is nothing happening in that direction at the moment, in terms of a permanent deal.

“We have spoken to Sheffield Wednesday but there doesn’t seem to be any agreement in place, be it an extended loan or a permanent deal.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“As far as I am aware they can do another loan. I don’t think there have been any extensive negotiations or anything in the pipeline right now. At this present moment he is coming back as it stands.”