Aston Villa Reject Arsenal’s £60m Bid for Ollie Watkins

Gunners Make Surprise Move for Premier League Star Striker

• Arsenal submit £60m bid for Ollie Watkins
• Aston Villa reject offer amid Champions League push
• Mikel Arteta keen on signing a proven number nine
• Watkins has previously expressed admiration for Arsenal

Arsenal have seen a £60m bid rejected for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, as they step up their search for a natural No.9 to bolster their attack. The Gunners have long been in need of a clinical striker, and with Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injury, their need for reinforcements has only grown stronger.

Why Arsenal Want Watkins

Despite the January transfer window nearing its end, Arsenal remain active in the market, looking for an elite goal scorer to improve their title-chasing squad. Mikel Arteta has relied heavily on Kai Havertz in the No.9 role, but with limited depth in attack, the club is pushing for a proven Premier League finisher.

Watkins, who has already netted 10 league goals this season, has been in outstanding form under Unai Emery, helping Villa qualify for the Champions League last year with 19 goals and 13 assists in the 2023/24 campaign. His work rate, versatility, and finishing ability make him a perfect fit for Arteta’s system.

Aston Villa’s Stance on Watkins’ Future

Aston Villa are not keen on selling their star forward, especially in the middle of a crucial campaign. The club is already fielding interest in another striker, Jhon Duran, with West Ham, Real Madrid, and Al Nassr reportedly interested in the £80m-rated Colombian.

While Arsenal are expected to return with an improved bid, Villa hold a strong position, with Watkins’ contract running until 2028. However, the striker has previously admitted his admiration for Arsenal, stating in 2020 that playing for the club was a childhood dream. Whether that sentiment influences his future remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

With the transfer window closing soon, Arsenal will have to act fast if they want to secure a top-class striker. Will they increase their bid for Watkins, or shift their focus to other targets like Benjamin Sesko?

💬 Should Arsenal break the bank for Ollie Watkins, or look elsewhere for a striker? Share your thoughts below! ⬇️