Former Reading sporting director Gianluca Nani has returned to English football with Watford.

The Italian spent just four months with the Royals in 2018, replacing Brian Tevreden in the role and worked alongside the likes of Ron Gourlay and Paul Clement.

He did not get the chance to oversee a transfer window, but the early Dai Yongge reign marked landmark signings and saw the club break their transfer record for Sone Aluko and George Puscas in 2017 and 2020 respectively.

Leaving in December 2018, the former West Ham and Watford chief has been out of the English game for five years.

The Hornets have reappointed Nani, who spent two years at Vicarage Road from 2012 until 2014, after the exit of Cristiano Giaretta.

The 62-year-old has vast experience in Italian football and had a spell in United Arab Emirates with Al-Jazira.

Upon leaving he said: "As the club is now moving in a different direction, I believe it is the right time for me to step away from the role,” Nani said.

“Even though it was only for a short time, I really appreciated my time at Reading Football Club. I met lovely people and great fans who have supported us through a difficult period."