Watford head coach Tom Cleverley has confirmed there is interest in defender Ryan Porteous, with Hull City thought to be one of the clubs trying to prize him away from the Hertfordshire club.

Scotland international Porteous has been a regular in the Hornets side this season, playing in 20 of their 26 games, scoring twice, including 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw with City at the MKM Stadium back in November.

City are keen to strengthen their defensive ranks during January and have been eyeing Willy Boly, but it's understood that deal is difficult given Nottingham Forest's reluctance to allow him to leave at such a crucial part of the season.

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The Tigers were previously keen on signing Porteous during his days at Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership before he eventually joined Watford on a deal until 2027 in January last year for a reported six-figure fee.

“I spoke to Ryan this morning, and we cleared the air," Cleverley told reporters ahead of their FA Cup tie with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Thursday night.

“I don’t know where the reports have come from, and I don’t think there are any quotes in the stories. He is one of a number of our players that have attracted a little bit of interest, but right now Ryan is a Watford player and right in the thick of things for selection.

“He is professional and experienced enough that these things won’t take his eye off the ball. He’s a Watford player, he’s available for selection, and he’s fully focused on doing his job for Watford.”