”I am sure…” - Exclusive: Watford’s Jake Livermore issues Yaser Asprilla prediction amid Barcelona links | OneFootball

Watford midfielder Jake Livermore has praised boss Valerien Ismael for the work he has done with Yaser Asprilla, as he tipped the youngster to get even better amid links to Barcelona.

The 20-year-old is one of the most exciting talents in the Football League right now due to his fantastic performances for the Hornets.

Barcelona considering transfer move for Yaser Asprilla

Asprilla has scored six times and registered four assists in the Championship, but it’s the manner of his displays, and the quality of some of the goals, that have caught attention.

Reports from Spain have suggested that Barcelona are keeping tabs on the Colombian international ahead of the summer window, with talk of a fee in the region of £40m being required to get a deal done.

Of course, it remains to be seen how things play out, but that gives an indication of Asprilla’s reputation in Europe.

Jake Livermore on Yaser Asprilla’s potential

And, speaking exclusively to Football League World, via Sky Bet, Livermore was keen to point out the work Ismael has done with Asprilla, as he also backed the youngster to continue to develop if he maintains his recent levels.

“There’s no doubt about it, he [Yaser Asprilla] has fantastic ability, and it’s a pleasure to play alongside him. The manager has got the best out of him, which is difficult at such a young age and when games come thick and fast.

“The manager has been brilliant with him, and it’s difficult coming from different cultures, different styles of play since he’s been here – he's had a few styles of play to play under – but he’s really trying to take it on board. With all those factors included, it shows what a great all rounder he is – he's got all the ability there and I am sure he’ll flourish once it all comes together.”

Livermore added: “I’ve got every confidence in the squad, and we’ve put a good run of form together previously in the season, so we know we can do it. We’ve played some good football – what the manager wants out of his squad. We know we can do it, so that’s the disappointing thing.

“Recently, we’ve had a tough couple of weeks, and the Championship is unforgiving. I’m confident with what we’ve got in the squad – the manager is doing the best with what he’s got to work with, and the players likewise. We’ve still got confidence, every time we get on the pitch, that we can break into the top six."

Yaser Asprilla’s transfer plans

Whilst Watford will want to keep hold of the player, the reality is that they know failure to win promotion back to the Premier League will leave them in a vulnerable position.

From the perspective of Asprilla, the prospect of joining Barcelona would be a dream, but he needs to think about his next move carefully.

A key factor in his development has been the fact Watford have given him regular minutes, and many observers would feel his next move should be to a club that guarantees him more game time.

But, as Livermore says, the only focus now is on winning promotion, and Asprilla will continue to play a key role as they push for the top six.