Arsenal are keeping tabs on the situation of Ollie Watkins at Aston Villa with the idea of making a swoop in the summer.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal could swoop in for Ollie Watkins in the summer, with Aston Villa keen to extend his deal. Mikel Arteta might find himself chasing a new forward if circumstances dictate terms, with the £75,000-a-week striker one of his options.
Ollie Watkins has hit a hot scoring streak for Aston Villa. His brace against Newcastle United took his tally to 13 goals from the last 12 games. The English striker, earning £75,000 per week, has flourished under Unai Emery as his stock continues to rise.
His form and some consistent Villa displays have built hope for a European finish. If that happens, the club will look at Watkins to lead them into a new era. The Premier League club could offer an improved contract for the £75,000-a-week striker.
Arsenal are among the clubs keeping tabs on his situation. Villa are keen to extend his deal that runs through 2025, meaning his value at the club will be at its highest during the next window. The 27-year-old will have options if he decides to take on a bigger challenge.
▪️ Double against Newcastle
▪️ 11 PL goals in 2023Ollie Watkins is the in-form striker in the Premier League 😤 pic.twitter.com/qu4UpwfIGn
— B/R Football (@brfootball) April 15, 2023
Mikel Arteta may find himself in the market searching for a striker. The starting positions seem secured with Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, and Leandro Trossard. Arsenal could find themselves in a different situation with Folarin Balogun.
If the Gunners cannot provide guarantees of first-team minutes, Balogun could depart in the summer. His stock has risen, and he wants to play regularly after a terrific season with Stade Reims, where he remains on loan for the season. Arsenal are linked with Dusan Vlahovic, which could point to Arteta’s need for a new forward.
Also Read: Aston Villa: The Unai Emery gamble is about to reap European rewards
Watkins comes somewhat close, considering his physical prowess and ability in the air. Considering the form of Jesus and the other forwards, he may not start regularly for Arsenal. Watkins could cement his position at Villa for the foreseeable future and sign a new deal. The Gunners or any other big teams could ready themselves to make a sizeable bid in case of twists.
