The January transfer window is always a pivotal period for Premier League clubs, offering a final chance to strengthen squads before the season’s crucial second half. For Arsenal, this window has taken on added importance due to injuries to key players like Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. As a result, Mikel Arteta has been actively seeking reinforcements, with the pursuit of a new striker emerging as a top priority. This search has led them to Aston Villa, where both Ollie Watkins and Jhon Durán have become central to ongoing transfer discussions.
Aston Villa’s attacking situation has drawn significant attention, particularly with both Watkins and Durán playing vital roles in their frontline. While both have impressed this season, their futures at Villa Park remain uncertain. The most immediate development surrounds Jhon Durán, the 21-year-old Colombian forward, who appears close to securing a high-profile transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr. Reports indicate the deal could be worth €77 million (£64.5m), including add-ons, making it one of the window’s standout moves.
Durán’s impending departure has sparked debate among Villa supporters, many of whom recognize his potential but acknowledge the financial benefits of his sale. Though he has shown promise since arriving from MLS side Chicago Fire, Villa may see this as an opportunity to reinvest in other areas. Signs of his exit have become more apparent, with reports suggesting he has begun distributing farewell gifts to teammates and staff—often a sign that a transfer is imminent.
Meanwhile, Durán’s move has intensified speculation surrounding Ollie Watkins, Villa’s star striker. Arsenal have long admired Watkins for his work rate, pace, and ability to create chances, and with their need for attacking reinforcements, their interest has resurfaced. However, their initial £60 million bid was swiftly rejected by Villa, who remain reluctant to part with their key forward, especially given Durán’s likely exit.
Unai Emery has been clear in his stance—while Villa may cash in on Durán, Watkins is not for sale. The England international remains a crucial part of Villa’s plans, and the club is under no financial pressure to sell. Nonetheless, Arsenal remain determined and are expected to return with an improved offer in the final days of the window, hoping that Villa’s windfall from Durán’s sale might soften their stance.
Mikel Arteta has remained measured when discussing transfers, refusing to comment directly on Watkins but acknowledging the club’s urgent need for reinforcements. With Saka and Jesus sidelined, Arsenal are lacking firepower and must act swiftly to bolster their attacking options.
While Watkins is their primary target, Arsenal are also exploring alternatives, including Bayern Munich’s 19-year-old French forward Mathys Tel. However, competition for Tel is fierce, with Chelsea and other Premier League clubs also in the mix. Should Arsenal fail to secure Watkins, they may pivot to Tel or another target in their bid to strengthen before the deadline.
As the transfer window nears its close, Arsenal face a crucial few days in their push to secure a new striker. With a title challenge and European ambitions at stake, their ability to finalize a deal—whether for Watkins, Tel, or another forward—could be decisive in shaping the remainder of their season. Meanwhile, Villa’s response to Arsenal’s persistence will be closely watched, as they balance financial opportunities with their ambitions for the campaign ahead.