Watford have sent young midfielder Cristian Battocchio to Virtus Entella in Italy's second tier for the entirety of the 2014-15 season.
The 22-year-old, who joined Watford permanently last summer by signing a three-year contract at the end of his loan from Udinese, has scored seven goals over the past two seasons but will now play in Serie B.
On their website Watford described the move as a chance at "development" for the Argentina-born Italy Under-21 international.
"Everyone at the Hornets wishes Cristian well for his year's development," said the club.
In total, Battocchio has turned out 66 times for the Hornets.
