Arsenal transfers: Gunners' bid for Ollie Watkins rejected by Aston Villa

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - JANUARY 26: Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa stretches for the ball during the Premier League match between Aston Villa FC and West Ham United FC at Villa Park on January 26, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Arsenals’ hopes of landing Ollie Watkins this January transfer window have been dashed after Aston Villa knocked back their offer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Daily Mail had broke the news that Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has been a long-time admirer of England international and the club has now made a move for the 29-year-old. Watkins still has three years remaining on his contract at Aston Villa, where he’s thought to be a key figure in Unai Emery’s plans.

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That said, a move to Arsenal could be tempting for Watkins, who has openly admitted to being an Arsenal fan growing up. In 2020, while at Brentford, he said, “That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a long shot.”

Villa, however, will feel confident given Watkins’ contract situation, and it’s unclear whether the Gunners will be able to pull off what would be one of the most exciting transfers of the January window. Jhon Duran’s possible departure to the Saudi Pro League means that they will not be actively looking to make any other sales upfront.

Watkins has scored 10 goals in 31 appearances for Villa this season, including one in the recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates.

The Gunners are open to bringing in a forward as they attempt to steal a march on Liverpool in the Premier League title race. The club opted not to bring in a No.9 during the summer, with Arteta believing that Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus would be enough.

What did Fabrizio Romano say about Arsenal’s Ollie Watkins bid?

Indeed, Romano reported that Villa had turned down the offer from Arsenal.

The reporter wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Villa have rejected today an official bid from Arsenal for Ollie Watkins.

“Proposal around £60m turned down as Villa are not happy with timing of the bid, ahead of crucial UCL game for the club.

“Villa are also in active talks with Al Nassr for Jhon Duran.”

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