Former Watford boss Walter Mazzarri has held talks with Crystal Palace over becoming the Eagles' new manager, the Watford Observer understands.

Mazzarri left the Hornets just over a fortnight ago after taking them to a 17th-placed finish in the Premier League, after his three-year deal at Vicarage Road was cut short.

The Italian confirmed at the time he would still undertake a planned intensive English course over the summer, having struggled to pick up the language during his time in Hertfordshire.

Mazzarri was first linked with Palace last week but sources have since confirmed to the Watford Observer the 55-year-old's representatives have held informal talks over the vacant position at Selhurst Park.