Arsenal have turned their attention to Ollie Watkins as they try and secure January reinforcements for Mikel Arteta’s attack. Villa have rejected a bid from the Gunners for their striker with the end of the winter transfer window looming less than a week away.
The Gunners are long term admirers of Watkins, who has scored 69 goals in 169 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa since joining the club in the summer of 2020.
Amid interest from a Premier League rival in one of their star strikers, Villa are also engaged in talks over the possible sale of the other. CBS Sports revealed on Wednesday morning that Saudi side Al-Nassr are mulling between moves for Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface and Jhon Duran.
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Indeed a medical has been booked for Duran in London on Thursday morning for what would be a $72 million move. However, sources with knowledge of Al-Nassr’s thinking insist that no final decision has been made over whether it will be the striker from Bayer Leverkusen or Aston Villa who moves to the Pro League. There remain outstanding matters in negotiations over Boniface that have encouraged Al-Nassr to progress their interest in Duran. A final decision is expected in the next 24 hours with the Saudi transfer window due to close on Friday.
As for Watkins, a serious move would constitute a signal of immediate intent for Arsenal, whose center forward options have been seriously limited by a major knee injury to Gabriel Jesus. Watkins turned 29 last month and would come with little prospect of resale value. Equally his track record in the top flight and exemplary fitness record – the most matches he has missed in a Premier League season is three – are good indicators that he could make an immediate impact.
Addressing his side’s need for signings on Tuesday, Arteta said: “There are situations open and I always say the same, if we can improve the squad with players that can impact us now and in the future, we will try to do that if it is the best thing for the club, and I stand by that.”
