Panathinaikos nears signing of Watford captain Imran Louza

Panathinaikos has reached a verbal agreement with Watford FC to sign Moroccan international midfielder Imran Louza. The 27-year-old, who served as Watford's captain, arrived in Athens on Wednesday to undergo medical and ergometric examinations.

The transfer involves a significant financial investment for the Greek club, with the transfer fee reported to be between €7 million and €8 million. Louza is expected to sign a contract lasting three years with an option for a fourth. His annual salary is estimated to exceed €1 million.

Louza brings extensive experience from the English Championship and the French league, having previously played for Nantes and Lorient. He has earned 15 caps for the Morocco national team. Panathinaikos aims to use his versatility to strengthen their midfield, as he is capable of playing both as a defensive '6' and a central '8'. An official announcement is expected on Friday following the completion of his medical tests.