Javi Gracia is a surprise candidate to take over at Real Sociedad, according to reports in Spain.

Sociedad are 10th in La Liga with a game to play and are expected to part company with current boss Imanol Alguacil, who was handed a short-term deal in March, when the season concludes.

Gracia is among a number of names being linked with the post, joining the likes of Unai Emery and Leganes’ Asier Garitano on the club’s shortlist.

While Gracia has spoken fondly of football in his native Spain, a move away from Watford looks unlikely at this time.

The Hornets head coach has already outlined his vision for a productive pre-season and harbours ambitions of improving on the 14th place finish secured in the season just finished in 2018/19.

He has also held talks with the Vicarage Road board and owner Gino Pozzo over transfer plans for the upcoming summer.

Gracia’s family are also set to join him in England and the 48-year-old is looking for properties in the area having lived in a hotel since arriving in England.