Arsenal are once again exploring the possibility of signing Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, following an initial approach last Monday, according to the latest reports.
The Gunners had tested the waters with an enquiry, which provided them with an indication of Villa’s valuation. However, there remains a significant gap of at least £20m between Arsenal’s expectations and what it will take to get a deal over the line. There is now just a matter of hours to complete any deal.
It looked as if a deal was totally dead, but Miguel Delaney has offered Arsenal fans some hope by saying a deal could still be done.
Arsenal initially discussed a fee in the region of £40m, but Villa are understood to be holding out for closer to £60m. The Midlands club have been one of the most active sides in the final days of the transfer window, having already offloaded Jhon Duran to Al Nassr. They’ve since added Paris Saint-Germain’s Marco Asensio and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford to their attack.
Villa’s delicate situation in relation to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) has seemingly given Arsenal encouragement. The club is aware that Villa may need to balance their books, and with Watkins one of their most valuable assets, there is a possibility that a significant offer could persuade them to sell.
Mikel Arteta has long admired Watkins, whose relentless work rate, pace, and goal-scoring ability make him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s attacking setup. The 29-year-old has been a consistent thorn in Arsenal’s side in recent seasons, regularly finding the net against them. Furthermore, Watkins grew up supporting Arsenal, a factor that could play a role if discussions advance.
With Arsenal still in need of attacking reinforcements, particularly a reliable goal-scorer, the opportunity to sign Watkins should be a no brainer if there is really a deal to be done. Fresh Arsenal understands the player is extremely keen on a move, but whether Villa will sanction a deal, in the same window they have lost Duran, remains to be seen.