Arsenal’s $120m Bid for Watkins Rejected by Aston Villa
Aston Villa has said no to a big offer from Arsenal for their star striker, Ollie Watkins. The bid was around £60 million, or about $120 million. This happened just hours before Villa’s important Champions League match against Celtic. The timing upset many at Villa Park. They weren’t happy that the offer came right before such a key game.
ICYMT: Manchester City Star Chloe Kelly Wants Out
Villa Stands Firm on Watkins
Even with the big money offer from Arsenal, Aston Villa is not selling Watkins. The club really wants to keep him. He has been a major player in Villa’s recent success under coach Unai Emery. Watkins scored 28 goals last season, helping Villa finish in the top four and reach the Champions League for the first time.
Watkins Shines for Both Club and Country
Watkins has also done well for England. His last-minute goal against the Netherlands helped England qualify for the Euro 2024 final. He is known as one of the best forwards in the Premier League. With 100 goal contributions in 169 games, he has shown he can perform at a top level. Just last Sunday, he assisted in Villa’s 1-1 draw with West Ham, showing off his skills.
Long-Term Deal at Villa Park
Watkins, who is now 29, signed a five-year contract with Villa in 2023. This means the club does not have to rush into selling him. They are confident they can keep him, given how important he is to the team.
Other Transfer News at Villa Park
While Watkins is safe, Villa is getting interest in another forward, Jhon Duran. Al Nassr from Saudi Arabia is talking about a transfer before the January window. Also, Villa midfielder Emi Buendia is going to Bayer Leverkusen on loan for the rest of the season. He has extended his contract with Villa but hasn’t started a Premier League match yet this season.
Plus, striker Louie Barry, after returning from a great loan at Stockport, has moved to Hull on loan for the season. He also signed a new contract with Villa before his loan.
Conclusion
Aston Villa’s refusal of Arsenal’s £60 million bid for Ollie Watkins shows they want to keep their top players as they grow in English football. With Watkins being key for both club and country, Villa is ready to hold on to him for the long haul. They aren’t planning to sell him anytime soon.
