Arsenal is reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins for a transfer fee of £60 million, with an additional £5 million included in performance-based add-ons.
After prolonged negotiations and initial setbacks, the two clubs have seemingly reached a consensus, and the transfer is now in its final stages.
Barring any unforeseen complications, an official confirmation is expected soon, with Watkins set to make a high-profile move to the Emirates Stadium.
Watkins’ Response to Arsenal’s Renewed Interest
Watkins has always admired Arsenal and has harbored aspirations of playing for the club since childhood.
His enthusiasm grew significantly when Arsenal made a late push to sign him after their initial offer of €48 million (£40 million) was rejected by Aston Villa.
Villa, who had recently secured an €80 million deal for Jhon Durán’s transfer to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, were unwilling to let Watkins go for a lower amount.
Despite the initial rejection, Watkins remained hopeful that Arsenal would return with an improved offer.
Reports indicate that the striker is still very much open to joining the North London club.
With Arsenal now prepared to table a significantly higher bid—believed to be around €72 million (£60 million)—the likelihood of Villa accepting the proposal has increased.
This figure is much closer to Watkins’ Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €65.8 million, making it a more reasonable valuation for both clubs.
Villa’s Dilemma and Emery’s Considerations
While Arsenal appears confident about securing the transfer, Aston Villa’s final decision could depend on whether manager Unai Emery believes he has a solid attacking alternative.
Reports suggest that Villa may be exploring the possibility of bringing in a new striker before sanctioning Watkins’ departure.
Emery is weighing his options carefully, and his willingness to part ways with Watkins might hinge on his ability to secure a replacement.
Additionally, there has been speculation about Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford potentially being a target for Villa, though no concrete developments have emerged on that front.
Arsenal’s Contingency Plans
If Arsenal’s latest bid for Watkins is turned down, it remains uncertain whether they will make another attempt in the summer transfer window.
Manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified other forward options should the deal for Watkins fall through.
Among the potential alternatives, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres have been linked with a move to the club.
For Watkins, this transfer represents a dream opportunity to play for Arsenal, the club he has supported since his youth.
He is eager to make the switch, recognizing that this could be his best—and perhaps only—chance to join the Premier League giants.
With the transfer deadline approaching, the pressure is mounting for all parties involved to finalize the deal before time runs out.
What’s Next for Watkins?
As the January transfer window nears its conclusion, Aston Villa faces a crucial decision regarding Watkins’ future.
If the transfer goes through, it will be a significant moment in his career, allowing him to align his personal aspirations with his professional at a top-tier club.
However, if Villa decides to hold onto him, Watkins may have to wait until the summer for another opportunity to make his dream move a reality.
