Aston Villa Reject Arsenal’s Bid for Ollie Watkins: What’s Next?
In the ever-dramatic world of football transfers, Aston Villa have made headlines by rejecting a formal offer from Arsenal for their star forward, Ollie Watkins. This development, confirmed by sources to ESPN, has left Arsenal scrambling as they look to bolster their attacking options before the transfer window slams shut on Monday.
Arsenal’s pursuit of a new forward has been a rollercoaster ride. Initially, they had their sights set on Benjamin Sesko, but hopes of securing the Red Bull Leipzig star have dwindled. With Sesko unlikely to leave his current club this month, Arsenal have turned their attention to Watkins, only to have their opening bid dismissed outright by Villa.
Now, the Gunners face a critical decision: should they return with an improved offer for Watkins? The timing of this decision is crucial, as Villa are currently focused on their Champions League group stage finale against Celtic on Wednesday evening. Arsenal must weigh their options carefully, considering the complexities of the situation.
Watkins himself has previously expressed a desire to play for Arsenal, stating back in 2020, “That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day.” However, the England international still has three years remaining on his current contract with Villa, putting the club in a strong position to demand a hefty transfer fee.
Complications in Arsenal’s Pursuit
Adding another layer of complexity to Arsenal’s pursuit of Watkins is the interest from Al-Nassr in Villa’s other striker, Jhon Durán. With the Saudi Pro League transfer window closing on Friday, Al-Nassr are reportedly considering a big-money move for either the 21-year-old Durán or Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen.
Villa are unlikely to entertain the idea of selling both Durán and Watkins in the same transfer window. Durán is valued at around £80 million, and any deal involving him would significantly complicate Arsenal’s efforts to lure Watkins away from Villa Park.
What Arsenal Must Consider
- Arsenal’s need for a forward is urgent, with the transfer deadline looming.
- Watkins’ contract situation gives Villa leverage in negotiations.
- Interest from Al-Nassr in Durán could impact Villa’s willingness to sell Watkins.
- Arsenal must decide whether to increase their offer for Watkins or explore other options.
As the clock ticks down to the transfer deadline, Arsenal’s management will need to act swiftly and decisively. The rejection of their initial bid for Watkins is a setback, but not an insurmountable one. Whether they choose to return with a more enticing offer or pivot to alternative targets remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on Villa’s Champions League clash with Celtic, as Arsenal fans eagerly await news of any developments in their club’s transfer pursuits. The coming days promise to be filled with intrigue and speculation as the transfer window drama unfolds.
Originally Written by: James Olley
