Arsenal have had a shock £60m bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected as the Gunners look to bolster their attacking options before the January transfer deadline.
The North London club, managed by Mikel Arteta, made an initial offer for the 29-year-old England international, but Villa have dismissed the approach.
Reports indicate Arsenal may return with an improved bid, though Villa are reluctant to sell, especially with fellow forward Jhon Duran potential £77m move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr looking imminent.
Watkins, who has 11 goals in 32 games this season, remains a key player for Villa manager Unai Emery. The striker’s contract runs until 2027, strengthening Villa’s position in negotiations.
Watkins also scored his first goal in the Champions League for Villa in their 4-2 victory against Celtic, securing automatic qualification as one of the top 8 sides in the competition.
Despite his past comments about his admiration for Arsenal, and growing up an Arsenal fan, a deal appears unlikely at this stage.
Arsenal are expected to make an improved bid for Watkins before next Monday's transfer deadline.
When asked about the situation post-match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said "I can't talk about any of that."
Arsenal, currently chasing Premier League leaders Liverpool, are seeking attacking reinforcements following injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. Other targets include RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.
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