Summary:
Watford have confirmed that they are close to agreeing a deal to sign Ecuador's defender.

Full article:
Watford are poised to sign Ecuador right-back Juan Carlos Paredes. The 27-year-old has refused to return to club Sporting Barcelona who plan to fine him. Club president Francisco Hidalgo confirmed: 'The negotiation with the English club is almost closed and we are only missing a few defining details.' Defensive striker: The full-back has refused to go back to his club in order to force through a move to England . World Cup star: Paredes was impressive for Ecuador in Brazil despite their failure to progress . He also insisted that the player has not explained his absence to the club, who have been unable to contact him since the World Cup. Paredes started all three of Ecuador's matches in Brazil and was impressive for his country as they failed to make it past the Group Stages.