Watford are expected to stand firm in the face of increased interest in Ismaila Sarr from Liverpool and Manchester United, as the Hornets look to hold onto one of their prize assets.

The Watford Observer understands that both United and the champions have increased their focus on the 22-year-old over the last week, although reports of a bid are believed to be premature.

Nevertheless, Watford have no need to sell the Senegalese winger, who has also previously stated that he is more than happy to stay and play in the Championship for a season and has four years remaining on his current contract.

The Hornets would not sell the player for less than they bought him for, while the Watford Observer has also been told that a previously-quoted valuation of £40million would also be too low to convince them to allow the player to leave.

The winger returned to training with the club this week and could be in line to make an appearance in Tuesday's Carabao Cup match with Newport, if not in tomorrow's Championship match with Sheffield Wednesday. 

In a press conference yesterday, head coach Vladimir Ivic said: "[Sarr] has worked with us and now we try to improve his physical condition. We will see what's going to happen, if he's going to be with us or not. Tomorrow we'll make a decision."