Watford FC announced the free transfer signing of Pape Gueye on Wednesday, after previous links between the player and Arsenal.

Pape Gueye of AC Le Havre (Photo via MediaReferee.com)
Pape Gueye of AC Le Havre (Photo via MediaReferee.com)

The official Watford club website posted on Wednesday to confirm the signing of Pape Gueye from AC Le Havre. The midfielder agreed a five-year contract with his new club, effective from July 1st.

Gueye’s contract with Le Havre expires this summer, so Watford have submitted an official pre-contract to complete the free transfer.

Previously, Arsenal were reportedly very close to an agreement for the player. Those claims were clearly wide of the mark, however, particularly as they suggested Gueye still had a contract until 2021, and the Gunners would have to pay a transfer fee.

Perhaps it was just another case of agents using Arsenal’s name to generate interest. Either way, we’ll get a look at the 21-year-old in the Premier League wearing opposition colours next season.

The left-footed Frenchman plays as a defensive midfielder. He is an u19 international with his country, making his debut at that level in 2017. Gueye made 25 appearances for Le Havre this season, providing a couple of assists.

As you may be aware, France recently banned professional sports for the coming months. As a result, the Ligue 2 season is over, and Gueye has played his last game for his current club.