Arsenal's pursuit of England forward Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa has encountered significant obstacles, as highlighted by former Gunners defender Martin Keown. In a surprising turn of events during the closing days of the January transfer window, Arsenal submitted a substantial bid of £60 million for the prolific striker, which Aston Villa promptly rejected. Despite this setback, speculation remains that Arsenal may return with an improved offer as they aim to strengthen Mikel Arteta’s squad before the window closes.
Keown, who boasts a rich history with Arsenal, expressed his admiration for Watkins, indicating that he would welcome the player at the Emirates Stadium. However, he raised concerns about Villa's willingness to part with their star forward, especially during an active season. Watkins has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent forwards, having scored 80 goals in 200 appearances for Aston Villa over the past three seasons. His contributions extend to the international stage, where he has earned 18 caps for England, notably scoring a crucial goal in the Euro 2024 semi-final that secured a place for Gareth Southgate’s team in the final.
“They've been linked with Ollie Watkins,” Keown remarked during an appearance on TNT Sports prior to Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Girona. “It’s an interesting one because he's a decent player. I would want him. I don't think Villa will accept the deal. They've got two very good strikers there, haven't they? So eventually one may move on. Or maybe they'll both stay, I don't know. But Arsenal are definitely pushing in the last few days of the transfer window and they need to strike.”
Watkins enjoyed a standout season last year, netting 19 goals in the Premier League and 27 in all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Aston Villa’s qualification for the Champions League. Following the recent injury to Gabriel Jesus, who is set to be sidelined for the remainder of the season, Arsenal is actively searching for a new striker. Current No. 9 Kai Havertz has faced challenges since his £65 million move from Chelsea in 2023, intensifying the urgency for Arsenal to secure attacking reinforcements.
In addition to Watkins, the Gunners have explored other options, including Benjamin Sesko, Dusan Vlahovic, and Victor Osimhen. However, Watkins remains the primary target. Arsenal legend Nigel Winterburn recently expressed confidence in the club's need for a prolific striker, stating he “would take” any of the alternative candidates as Arsenal strives to close the gap with Premier League leaders Liverpool in the latter stages of the season. “The Gunners need a striker to take them to the next level, and that is to win the Premier League,” he remarked. “I would take any of those strikers - it doesn't matter which one. What matters is who scores the most goals for this team and is the best fit.”
Each potential signing brings its own unique attributes, but the immediate focus for Arsenal is to secure a player capable of consistently finding the net and leading the club towards a title challenge. Addressing this need within the squad could prove crucial for Arsenal’s aspirations in the current campaign. As reported by Metro.co.uk, developments in the transfer market are integral to shaping Arsenal's ambitions for the remainder of the season.