Arsenal have seen their opening bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected, with the Midlands club holding firm on their £80 million valuation of the 28-year-old. Reports indicate that Arsenal’s initial offer was closer to £40 million, a figure far below Villa’s asking price, as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his attacking options before the transfer deadline.
Arsenal have seen their opening bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected, with the Midlands club holding firm on their £80 million valuation of the 28-year-old. Reports indicate that Arsenal’s initial offer was closer to £40 million, a figure far below Villa’s asking price, as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his attacking options before the transfer deadline.
While earlier reports suggested a £60 million bid, it has now emerged that the Gunners’ proposal was significantly lower than expected. Aston Villa, who are pushing for a Champions League spot this season, have made it clear they have no intention of parting ways with Watkins, who has been a key player under Unai Emery. However, the striker, a lifelong Arsenal fan, is keen on a move, and his desire to join the North London club could play a role in negotiations.
The situation has become more complicated with Villa’s pursuit of Jhon Duran’s move to Saudi Arabia, which has added further pressure to any potential deal for Watkins, likely making it more expensive for Arsenal.
Arsenal’s interest in Watkins comes as part of their search for a proven goal scorer to help fuel their Premier League title challenge. While Villa remains resolute in their stance, Arsenal are reportedly planning a second, improved offer, encouraged by indications from Watkins’ camp that a transfer could still be possible. Unai Emery, speaking after a recent match, hinted that he might be open to letting the player leave if the right offer arrives.
If a deal for Watkins proves too difficult to complete, Arsenal have other targets in mind, including Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, Brighton’s Evan Ferguson, Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel, and Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface. With the transfer window closing soon, Arsenal’s efforts to bolster their squad with a new striker are likely to intensify.