EPL bound: Watford join Michael Essien race

AC Milan's Michael Essien has emerged as a target for Watford next season, after being told he has no future at San Siro next season.

The 32-year-old has earned a reputation for his strong play from midfield, as well as an ability to score the occasional long-range wonder-goal when on great form.

However, injuries have disrupted his career in recent years, and he has found himself down the pecking order at the club under manager Filipo Inzaghi this term.

Milan do not plan to keep him, and he has been mooted with a move to either the USA or India.

However, according to The Sun, Watford manager SlaviÅ¡a Jokanović is said to be monitoring Essien's situation, as he is on the lookout for a defensive midfielder of this kind to add to his squad for the 2015/16 Premier League season.

The Hornets have had a good year in the Championship, clinching promotion to the top flight last weekend, but missed out on the Championship title on Saturday.

Essien's physical and aggressive style of play would appeal to Jokanović, who is known for forming teams of experienced and competitive players