Arsenal's £60m Bid for Ollie Watkins Rejected by Aston Villa

2025-01-30

Arsenal have made a significant bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, but the offer has been rejected by the Midlands club. The Gunners, who are actively seeking attacking reinforcements due to injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, reportedly tabled a bid in the region of £60 million (€70 million) for the 29-year-old forward. However, Villa have no intention of selling their star striker, who has been instrumental for them this season, scoring 10 Premier League goals and helping the club compete in the Champions League.

Watkins, a boyhood Arsenal fan, has previously expressed his admiration for the club, stating in 2020 that it was his “dream” to play for the Gunners. Despite his personal connection to Arsenal, Villa are determined to retain him, especially as they face a crucial period in their season. The timing of Arsenal’s bid has reportedly angered Villa, as it emerged ahead of a key Champions League fixture against Celtic.

Meanwhile, Villa striker Jhon Durán is set to leave the club, with Al-Nassr preparing an £80 million offer for the Colombian. Villa manager Unai Emery has hinted that Durán’s departure could be beneficial for the club, given the substantial fee involved. However, Emery has made it clear that Watkins is not for sale, describing him as a key part of Villa’s sporting objectives.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has openly acknowledged the need for attacking reinforcements, stating that the team is “short” in that area. While the Gunners may return with an improved offer for Watkins, Villa’s reluctance to sell suggests that any deal would be difficult to finalise before the transfer deadline.

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