Arsenal’s £60M bid for Ollie Watkins rejected by Aston Villa

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is the target of Arsenal’s move ahead of the transfer deadline next week. As a long-time fan of the England international, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has made a move for the 29-year-old.

It is believed that Arsenal’s first bid for Watkins was turned down, but a better effort is anticipated. With three years left on his current contract at Villa Park, Watkins is an important member of Unai Emery’s team.

Nonetheless, Watkins, who has acknowledged that he grew up as an Arsenal supporter, would find a transfer to the club appealing. The attacker stated in 2020 when playing for Brentford: “To play for Arsenal one day is the dream.” But it’s unlikely, you know.

However, Emirates officials have determined that the forward is the player who can spark their title challenge as they attempt to unseat Liverpool at the top of the Premier League standings.

It is unclear if the Gunners will be able to pull off one of the most striking acquisitions of the January window, but Villa will feel they are in a strong position given Watkins’ contractual status.

In his 31 games for Villa this season, Watkins has scored 10 goals, including one in the team’s most recent 2-2 tie with Arsenal at the Emirates.