Arsenal are hoping that Ollie Watkins will push for a transfer away from Aston Villa before the 3 February deadline, according to sources at Football Insider.
On the latest Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke shared that the 29-year-old, a lifelong Arsenal fan, is being targeted by the club, who are trying to appeal to his emotional ties to secure the move.
This follows The Athletic’s report that Arsenal submitted a £60 million bid for the striker, which Aston Villa swiftly rejected, as they are determined to keep him.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Arsenal are now accelerating their transfer plans after holding “crisis” discussions. However, Villa were reportedly caught off guard by Arsenal’s bid, particularly due to its timing just before their Champions League clash with Celtic.
Following Jhon Duran’s impending departure, Villa are unwilling to entertain any talks about Watkins leaving and have no plans to let him go.
Aston Villa Firm on Keeping Watkins Despite Arsenal’s Interest
Villa were already hesitant to part with Watkins midway through the season due to his key role in Unai Emery’s squad and their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.
So far this season, Watkins has played 32 matches, scoring 11 goals and assisting nine times, contributing to 15 goals in 23 league appearances. While his form hasn’t matched last season’s heights, he remains a vital player, having kept Duran out of the starting lineup.
Now, with Duran set to depart before the deadline, Watkins’ importance has only increased, reinforcing Villa’s stance that he will not be leaving.