US Cremonese lose another key player. Martin Payero, the Argentine midfielder who spent last season on loan at the club, has completed a permanent move to Watford as part of a triple deal involving Udinese that also includes Iker Bravo and Jordan Zemura.

What happened?

Sky Sport Italia reports that Payero has already signed his Watford contract after passing his medical. The 28-year-old, who joined Udinese in 2023 after a spell at Middlesbrough, spent the 2025-26 campaign on loan at Cremonese.

Udinese, owned by the Pozzo family who also control Watford, leveraged their historic ties to complete the triple sale. Iker Bravo, 21, has already arrived in London after moving from Bayer Leverkusen in 2024 and a loan to Las Palmas. Jordan Zemura, the Zimbabwe-born left-back raised in London, is expected to finalize his transfer within 24-48 hours.

Why it matters for US Cremonese

Payero leaves a clear mark on Cremonese. Across 28 Serie A appearances in the granata shirt, he contributed 3 goals and 4 assists, helping the side secure safety with 34 points in 18th place. His departure creates a midfield void ahead of the new season.

The Cremona side, coming off a tough campaign with 8 wins, 10 draws and 20 losses, now faces an urgent rebuild. Payero was one of the few offensive anchors, and his exit lands at a delicate moment for the squad.

What comes next?

Udinese has already banked the transfer fees, while Watford secures three experienced additions. Payero, in particular, brings Championship know-how and could be an immediate impact player.

For US Cremonese, the transfer window just got tighter. With a thin attack and a need to strengthen, the club must act fast to avoid starting the season on the back foot. The side sits on 32 goals scored and 57 conceded, needing a clear shift in approach.

With Payero gone, all eyes turn to who can step into his role. The 2026-27 Serie A kickoff is less than two months away, and every day counts.