Arsenal has made a bold attempt to sign the Aston Villa Ollie Watkins striker as the transfer deadline is approaching.
Mikel Arteta, an admirer of the England’s international for a long time, has pushed the club to act with his interest in the 29 -year -old striker with the Gunners without a traditional and form striker.
The reports say that the initial offer of Arsenal, which is believed to cost around £ 60 million, since Watkins has been rejected, but is expected to return with an improved offer in an effort to ensure its services before February 3.
With three remaining years in his contract in Villa Park, Watkins remains an integral part of Uni Emery team.
However, the perspective of a transfer to the Emirates could appeal to the striker, who has previously talked about his admiration for Arsenal and immediately would be a challenge of winning the premier League title.
While I was in Brentford in 2020, Watkins said: “That is the dream, play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a remote possibility. “
🚨🔴⚪️ Aston Villa today rejected an official offer from Arsenal by Ollie Watkins.
The proposal around £ 60 million rejected since Villa is not happy with the time of the offer, before the UCL crucial game for the club.
👀🇸🇦 Villa is also in active conversations with Al Nassr for Jhon Durán. pic.twitter.com/krgjfzzyih
– Roman Fabrizio (@Fabarizioromano) January 29, 2025
The Northern London Club is anxious to strengthen its attack options in the January window, since its goal is to challenge Liverpool for the title
Despite the strong interest of Arsenal, Villa is in a safe position due to the current Watkins contract, which makes any possible challenge a significant challenge.
It remains to be seen if the gunners can reach an agreement.
This season, Watkins has scored 10 goals in 31 appearances for Villa, including one in its recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Emirates.
Villa is also in negotiations with the Saudi Pro League Al-Nassr team to sell the highly qualified scorer Jhon Duran.
It is believed that the Midlands club values it in around £ 80 million.
