Shittu has been at Loftus Road since 2002

The 25-year-old had looked to be heading for West Bromwich Albion after Rangers accepted a �1.5m offer.

But the Hornets scuppered West Brom's plans, signing the Nigerian international on a three-year contract in a deal that could rise to �3m.

"We're signing another player who fits the Watford way, hungry to learn and to prove his worth at the very top level," said Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd.

"He is somebody we have been chasing for some time and I'm pleased he will now have the chance to fight for a place along with the other excellent centre-halves."

Shittu will be available to make his debut in the pre-season friendly against Inter Milan on Tuesday night.

Shittu moved to Loftus Road from Charlton in 2002 in a �350,000 deal funded by QPR fans Matthew and Alex Winton.

He made 162 league appearances for the Loftus Road outfit and was a firm favourite among supporters.