Preston and Watford have both submitted rival bids for Zach Abbott. According to Nixon, Watford are one of three second-tier teams interested in taking Abbott on loan for the campaign. Sky Sports News also reported Watford's interest. The Hornets have created a seven-man centre-back shortlist this summer, with Abbott mentioned alongside players such as Jake Clarke-Salter of Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield United's Mark McGuinness, and Forest teammate Tyler Bindon. Watford currently have only Mattie Pollock and Kevin Keben as their two recognised senior centre-backs.

Nottingham Forest's English defender Zach Abbott has been linked with a move to Championship side Watford. Reporter Alan Nixon has claimed on his Patreon page that fellow second-tier club Preston North End are also interested in a loan deal for the 20-year-old. Abbott has two caps for England's U20 side, a contract with Forest until 2029, and his current Transfermarkt market value is €4.00m.