Arsenal are convinced of Ollie Watkins and his desire to switch after a failed bid for the striker, as Aston Villa were left furious with the offer.
According to a report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Arsenal are confident that Ollie Watkins wants to join them in the final days of the winter transfer window after Aston Villa turned down their offer on Wednesday. The Villans are furious with the offer from the Gunners, as they are leaning towards keeping the 29-year-old England international.
It has been a frantic 24-hour period over at Aston Villa following bids for both their main strikers. There was heavy interest from Al-Nassr in Jhon Duran. While they have since accepted a mammoth bid from the Saudi giants, Arsenal made a statement offer for Ollie Watkins, worth a reported £60 million, turned down by Aston Villa.
The Gunners are expected to return with a new offer, and while Aston Villa are leaning towards keeping the 29-year-old England international, Arsenal are confident for some reason. The North Londoners believe Watkins wants the move, as there are suggestions this is seen as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by the striker.
Arsenal have been in the market for a new attacker following injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. The No.9 position, in particular, has lacked depth beyond Kai Havertz, and hence, they have felt it was feasible to spend £60 million for 29-year-old Watkins.
While Arsenal remain optimistic about the chances of landing the experienced forward before the February 3 deadline, much will depend on Villa’s ability to find an able replacement. However, the West Midlands outfit are leaning towards keeping him, considering Duran has left for Al-Nassr.
Aston Villa are furious with Arsenal
Given the occasion of their UEFA Champions League game against the Celtic and the ongoing negotiations with Al-Nassr for Duran, Aston Villa were reportedly furious by Arsenal’s bid for Watkins. They were particularly intrigued by the timing of the offer as well as the price, given mid-season transfers usually cost a lot more.
Now, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal feel the need to put more money into a potential second bid for Watkins. They may turn their attention towards other stars, with some other players like Benjamin Sesko and Dusan Vlahovic already linked.
