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Arsenal to agree Ollie Watkins deal? ‘It just confirms all along…’
Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media
Arsenal are unlikely to agree a big-money deal to sign Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins before the transfer window closes on Monday (3 February).
That is the view of finance expert Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider there is no value for Villa in selling the England international after Jhon Duran joined Al-Nassr for more than £64million.
The Telegraph reported on 30 January Arsenal’s bid for Watkins was worth around £45million after it was initially believed to be in the region of £60million.
Football Insider revealed on 31 January the north London giants are hoping to play on the 29-year-old’s heartstrings as he is a boyhood fan of the club.
But the forward remains a key player for Unai Emery’s side after registering 11 goals and nine assists in 33 appearances this season.
Arsenal to face issues agreeing striker deal
Borson insisted it will be difficult for Arsenal to sign a striker this late in the window.
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He told Football Insider: “I think the Watkins bid just confirms they have always had capacity all the way along.
“That’s not a surprise to anybody that looks at the numbers. It’s been a choice.
“They seem to have left it a little bit late. I guess they would argue that they have had injuries that they wouldn’t expect in this window and ordinarily wouldn’t want to do a deal. They also lost the sporting director.
“But you could also say that the level that they have bid is neither here nor there. Apparently, they bid less than £60million. If they bid £50million, the actual cost in this financial year is negligible, even for a player like Watkins.
“But they are just not realistically going to get him. I think you then look at the importance of youth. Watkins is 29 and they just don’t think there is the value there to pay more than £60million.
“But clearly, there is also not value in Villa selling him, especially after they have just sold Duran. I don’t think the deal will happen and I don’t know what that means for Arsenal. They have obviously got money.
“They could do a deal but finding a striker at the 11th hour in the window is very hard.”
In other news, 23-year-old sends message to Arsenal fans after he’s axed.
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Rumors are swirling that Arsenal is set to agree on a deal to bring in Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa. This move would come as no surprise to many fans, who have long believed that Watkins would be a perfect fit for the Gunners.With his impressive goal-scoring record and ability to play across the front line, Watkins could provide the attacking spark that Arsenal has been missing in recent seasons. The 25-year-old has proven himself to be a top striker in the Premier League and could be the missing piece in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
If the deal goes through, it would be a major coup for Arsenal and a sign that they are serious about challenging for silverware once again. Fans will be hoping that Watkins can make an immediate impact and help lead the team to success in the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates on this potential transfer as negotiations continue between the two clubs. Arsenal fans may finally get the striker they have been longing for.
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#Arsenal #agree #Ollie #Watkins #deal #confirms #along..Arsenal did not bid £60m for Ollie Watkins as true price of ‘rejected’ bid revealed
Arsenal did not offer as much as £60million to Aston Villa for England striker Ollie Watkins, according to a report.
It was reported on Wednesday night that Arsenal made an audacious bid to sign Watkins from Aston Villa, hours before both clubs played in the Champions League.
Mikel Arteta’s side had already secured qualification into the last 16 of the competition but the Villans had to win against Celtic and receiving an offer so close to kick-off reportedly frustrated the club’s hierarchy.
The timing was bizarre and clearly won’t help negotiations, with the Gunners considering an improved offer.
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Arsenal icon questions Marcus Rashford ‘ambition’ as ‘very interesting’ Gunners signing mooted – exclusiveIt was widely reported that Arsenal’s bid was £60million and rejected by their Premier League rivals.
However, a report from The Telegraph says the Londoners made a bid worth ‘closer to £45million’.
It is said Villa are ‘adamant they do not want to sell’ with the actual offer ‘around half’ his valuation.
The report says:
With Arsenal weighing up whether to test Villa’s resolve with a second offer, Telegraph Sport understands the opening bid that was immediately rejected was closer to £45 million than the £60 million that was originally reported.
There was annoyance inside Villa Park at the timing of the bid – ahead of the Champions League game against Celtic – and the size of the offer. Sources likened it to West Ham’s £57 million bid for Jhon Durán ahead of the Monaco game that was rejected out of hand.
Neither Arsenal nor Villa would comment on the exact fee offered for Watkins, with Villa believing it was irrelevant given they do not want to sell the 29-year-old in the final days of the transfer window. Arsenal believe their bid represented fair market value and was not timed to cause any problems.
Well-placed insiders believe Villa value Watkins at more than £80 million in the current market, even though they have not set an asking price or given Arsenal a figure to try to hit.
Arsenal are considering whether to make a second bid, but the Premier League title-chasers would have to increase it significantly to stand any chance of changing Villa’s stance. It is unclear whether Villa would be forced to consider an offer if Watkins expressed a desire to leave.
There is also acknowledgement that Durán’s impending move to Saudi Arabia, for an initial £64 million plus add-ons, will make a successful move for Watkins even more difficult for Arsenal.
Villa on Wednesday night dismissed the prospect of selling both their star strikers so close to the end of the transfer window and the club will look to reinvest some of the Durán cash once the move goes through.
As mentioned in the report, Jhon Duran is set to move to Saudi Arabia.
When that transfer is finalised, Villa will probably want even more than £80m to part ways with Watkins.
READ NOW: Marcus Rashford being ‘forced out’ of Man Utd for ‘survival’ of club?
According to recent reports, Arsenal did not actually bid £60m for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, as previously rumored. The true price of the bid that was reportedly rejected by Villa has been revealed to be significantly lower.It seems that the initial reports of Arsenal’s £60m bid were inaccurate, with sources now indicating that the actual bid made by the Gunners was much less than that figure. This revelation has shed new light on the situation and the true extent of Arsenal’s interest in Watkins.
While Arsenal may still be interested in signing Watkins, it appears that their initial bid was not as high as originally reported. It remains to be seen whether the Gunners will make another offer for the talented striker, but for now, it seems that the £60m bid was nothing more than a rumor.
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Unai Emery says Ollie Watkins is ‘happy to stay’ at Aston Villa despite Arsenal interest
Unai Emery says Ollie Watkins is happy to stay at Aston Villa, ruling out a potential departure this window.
Watkins had been the subject of interest from Arsenal on Monday, which was swiftly rebuffed by Villa. News of Arsenal’s overtures were leaked two days later, which angered Villa’s senior staff, given it was just hours before the key Champions League fixture against Celtic.
Jhon Duran’s impending move to Al Nassr is expected to be completed on Friday, leaving Watkins as the club’s sole traditional striker. He is Villa’s top scorer in the league and Emery, speaking ahead of the trip to Molineux on Saturday, is “happy to stay” at the club this window.
“The commitment of Watkins with us is a huge commitment to defend Aston Villa,” said Emery. “He appreciates a lot how Aston Villa was always supporting him, helping him. When we joined here two years ago, how we worked with him — we are always trying to get the best of him. Now we need him, like he needed Aston Villa in the last years. The conversations we are having with him, he’s always adapting to every circumstance we have.
“Of course when some teams call us being interested in the players, it’s very good for us. Some players prefer to leave. Some players accept to be here and commit to us here and one of them is Ollie Watkins.”
Watkins has scored 11 goals and has registered nine assists across 32 appearances this season. When asked whether he could completely guarantee the 29-year-old remaining a Villa player, Emery said that was the case.
“He’s happy to stay. You can ask him but we asked him how he’s feeling every day and every year with Aston Villa and he’s happy here.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, was asked about his club’s potential deal for Watkins at a news conference earlier on Friday and said: “Not gonna talk about it. We are proactively looking.”
GO DEEPER
Uncertainty gripped the futures of Duran and Watkins – Rogers stepped forward
(Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Unai Emery says Ollie Watkins is ‘happy to stay’ at Aston Villa despite Arsenal interestFormer Arsenal manager Unai Emery has revealed that Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is content at his current club and has no intention of leaving, despite interest from the Gunners.
Emery, who now manages Spanish side Villarreal, spoke highly of Watkins and praised his performances for Villa this season. The 25-year-old has been in fine form, scoring 12 goals in 22 Premier League appearances so far.
Speaking to reporters, Emery said, “Ollie Watkins is a fantastic player and he is happy at Aston Villa. I don’t see him leaving anytime soon. He is a key player for them and I believe he is focused on helping the team achieve their goals this season.”
Arsenal were reportedly interested in signing Watkins last summer before he joined Villa from Brentford for a club-record fee. However, it seems that the striker is committed to his current club and is not looking for a move away anytime soon.
Villa fans will be delighted to hear that Watkins is happy at the club, as he has been a crucial part of their success this season. With Emery’s comments putting an end to any transfer speculation, Villa can now focus on their push for European qualification in the Premier League.
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Unai Emery, Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa, Arsenal, transfer news, Premier League, football, soccer, transfer rumors, player contracts, transfer updates, Unai Emery quotes, Ollie Watkins transfer, Aston Villa transfer news, Arsenal transfer rumors
#Unai #Emery #Ollie #Watkins #happy #stay #Aston #Villa #Arsenal #interestGunners considering bold bid for €65m-rated striker this weekend after Ollie Watkins bid rejected
Arsenal are still keen to sign a new striker before the transfer window closes and could make a late move for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, TEAMtalk understands.
The Gunners submitted a bid of around £40m for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins earlier this week, which was instantly rejected, and he won’t be joining the London side this window.
Aston Villa are on the verge of selling Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, who has already completed a medical ahead of the move, and Unai Emery has no intention of allowing his first-choice striker Watkins to leave too.
Unai Emery, meanwhile, has confirmed that Watkins isn’t pushing to leave Aston Villa. “Some players prefer to leave and some players accept to stay here and commit to Aston Villa and compete for our challenges. One of them is Ollie Watkins,” Emery said in a press conference.
Mikel Arteta’s priority ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline is to sign a new striker to cover for Gabriel Jesus, who is sidelined with an injury.
Sources state that Juventus striker Vlahovic is among Arsenal’s top targets. A final decision on whether to bid hasn’t been made, but the Gunners are considering a bid over the weekend.
The 25-year-old is open to a new challenge in the Premier League. He has scored seven goals in 18 Serie A appearances this season and has big admirers at the Emirates.
READ MORE: Newcastle stance on new Alexander Isak contract assessed as Arsenal eye 17-goal superstar
Arsenal face hurdles in Dusan Vlahovic pursuit
A deal for Vlahovic won’t be straightforward, however. As we have previously reported, Juventus would need to sign another striker before sanctioning his exit.
The Turin-based club are now running out of time to sign a new centre-forward, even though they have already signed one new one – Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain.
Juventus manager Thiago Motta is not convinced that Kolo Muani can be relied upon as Juventus’ main striker in both the Serie A and Champions League, with back-up option Arkadiusz Milik currently sidelined with an injury.
In the event that Juventus do sign another new forward, sources suggest that they could consider selling Vlahovic for slightly less than his initial €65m (£54.4m, $67.4m) price tag.
RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko remains high on Arsenal’s shortlist but the German side are very reluctant to allow him to leave mid-season.
Sesko, 21, could be a viable target for Arsenal in the summer but it would take a mega-money bid to get him before the transfer window closes.
Vlahovic, however, is a player to keep a close eye on in the coming days.
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Meanwhile, recent reports have claimed that Arsenal have shown interest in Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui.
Retegui has been referred to as the “hot striker” in Italian football at the moment, with three goals more (16) than any other Serie A player this term.
There has been no indication yet as to what fee Atalanta could consider selling him for, but reports suggest Arsenal are keeping tabs on his situation.
In other news, reports claim that Aston Villa could rival Arsenal in the race to sign Matheus Cunha, although this is likely to be a summer saga, rather than a move happening in the next few days.
The Gunners have identified Cunha as one of their main targets to strengthen their left-wing position alongside Athletic Club’s Nico Williams.
FULL BREAKDOWN: All the done deals by Premier League clubs in the January 2025 transfer window
IN FOCUS: What Dusan Vlahovic would bring to Arsenal
Towering at 1.90m tall, it’s no surprise what kind of centre-forward Dusan Vlahovic is. If it’s a target man you want, this is the kind of player you’d design.
Renowned for his strength, Vlahovic excels with his hold-up play. But he doesn’t just stop there; although he won’t drop deep too often, this is a player with good ball-carrying abilities as well, making him extremely dangerous on transition if he can pin his marker and change the direction of play.
What about his finishing, though? Despite his potential, Vlahovic hasn’t always been the most prolific frontman. His best period as a goalscorer was between 2020 and 2022, when he scored 50 goals over two seasons (he was a Fiorentina player for one-and-a-half of those, and a Juventus player for the last half).
At Juventus, he hits double figures regularly, but still hasn’t taken that next step to becoming a regular 20-goal-a-season striker.
Vlahovic is left-footed and that represents his most common way to score, significantly more so than via heading, despite his height. He isn’t just a penalty-box poacher, either; the Serbia striker is a reliable free-kick taker and is dangerous from long range.
There’s a lot to like about Vlahovic in terms of his raw traits, but in his mid-20s, he still isn’t the finished article. With a bit of refinement to his game, he could reach the next level, but he is just outside the bracket of being top-class just yet.
READ MORE: Arsenal fail with attempt to sign record-breaking midfielder
According to reports, Arsenal are considering making a bold bid for a €65m-rated striker this weekend after their initial offer for Ollie Watkins was rejected by Aston Villa. The Gunners are in desperate need of reinforcements up front, and have identified the unnamed striker as their top target.Despite having a strong attacking lineup, Arsenal have struggled to find a consistent goal scorer this season. With Alexandre Lacazette’s future at the club uncertain and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang not hitting top form, manager Mikel Arteta is eager to bring in a new striker to bolster his options.
The €65m-rated striker is said to be open to a move to the Emirates and could provide the goalscoring threat that Arsenal have been lacking. It is believed that negotiations between the two clubs are already underway, and a deal could be completed in the coming days.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that the Gunners can secure the signature of the talented striker, as they look to push for a top-four finish in the Premier League this season. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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Aston Villa: Ollie Watkins tells Unai Emery he will reject Arsenal to stay
Fellow striker Jhon Duran is expected to complete a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in a deal worth up to 85m euros (£71.1m). The Saudi transfer window closes on Friday.
Monchi, Villa’s president of football operations, admits the club will need to keep some of the money brought in to help comply with profit and sustainability rules.
He said: “It is an important operation for a player with tremendous potential.
“But these types of offers, for the club and the player, are difficult to reject. Between fixed and variable amounts, it will be close to 85m euros.
“There are a few small details left and for the player it is an incredible economic leap.
“The first thing we are going to do with the money we receive from the sale of Duran is to keep a portion of it because of the fair play rules, which are very demanding.
“A significant part of the income will go towards that.”
Chelsea striker Joao Felix and Paris St-Germain forward Marco Asensio are both on Villa’s wishlist before Monday’s 23:00 GMT deadline as they look for reinforcements.
Felix has seven goals in 20 games for Chelsea having moved to Stamford Bridge from Atletico Madrid for £45m in the summer but has made just three Premier League starts.
Spain international Asensio, 29, has made 16 appearances for PSG, scoring twice, but just eight of them have come in Ligue 1 for the leaders.
Monchi told Spanish radio station El Larguero: “Then there are names, one of them being Joao. Emery likes him, because in the three transfer markets I have been in, the fourth with this one, he has always been mentioned and has been a small object of desire for Emery.
“But it is complicated, and I don’t know if we will be able to be there.
“The first time, Aston Villa were in the Conference [League] and he wanted the Champions League – that’s why he went to Barcelona. Then, in the operation with [Conor] Gallagher and Atletico he had to enter into negotiations with Chelsea and we couldn’t get in.
“It’s a similar case to Asensio there is also an important love affair. Shortly before my arrival, Aston Villa tried to sign him and came close, but he went to PSG.
“He is a player that Emery has always had in mind because he believes in his quality.”
Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins has delivered a blow to Arsenal by revealing his intentions to stay at the club and reject any potential move to the Gunners.Reports had emerged linking Watkins with a potential move to Arsenal, with former Arsenal manager Unai Emery reportedly keen on bringing the 25-year-old to the Emirates.
However, Watkins has made it clear that he is committed to Aston Villa and has no plans to leave the club anytime soon.
In an interview, Watkins said, “I am happy at Aston Villa and I want to continue to help the team achieve our goals. I have no interest in leaving the club at this moment.”
This news will come as a relief to Aston Villa fans who have been impressed by Watkins’ performances since joining the club from Brentford last summer.
With Watkins leading the line, Aston Villa have enjoyed a strong start to the season and will be hoping to secure European qualification by the end of the campaign.
It seems that Arsenal will have to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements, as Watkins looks set to stay put at Villa Park for the foreseeable future.
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#Aston #Villa #Ollie #Watkins #tells #Unai #Emery #reject #Arsenal #stay
Ollie Watkins is open to joining Arsenal this month following shock bid – but Aston Villa are determined to keep the England striker
- Arsenal saw a shock bid for Ollie Watkins rejected by Aston Villa on Wednesday
- The Gunners have been keen to sign an attacking option in the January window
- LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Ollie Watkins to Arsenal? It’s terrible planning from Arsenal… it’s all a bit late and panicked from the Gunners!
Ollie Watkins would be open to joining Arsenal this month but Aston Villa are determined to keep the England international.
Mail Sport revealed on Wednesday that the Gunners had an offer for Watkins rejected after receiving encouragement that a successful swoop was possible.
Arsenal, on Thursday, still had not given up hope of landing the 29-year-old despite the understanding that Villa will not consider selling Watkins and his strike partner Jhon Duran in the same window.
Duran is close to joining Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.
Arsenal are now weighing up a second offer in hope of reviving the deal but if Duran completes his switch to the Middle East it appears highly unlikely that a renewed bid would be successful.
Watkins, for his part, is open to joining Arsenal – the club he supported as a boy – should the two clubs reach an agreement.
Ollie Watkins would be open to joining Arsenal who tabled a shock bid for his services this week
Aston Villa are determined to keep hold of the England star with Jhon Duran nearing a move to Al-Nassr
Mail Sport understands that Mikel Arteta’s side have not given up hope on landing the striker
With Arsenal likely to further strengthen their forward line this summer should a move for Watkins fail this month, this may be the final opportunity for the forward to join the team he followed as child.
If a deal is not possible, Arsenal are monitoring Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel, 19, and could launch a move for the Frenchman.
Tel also has interest from Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester United and Aston Villa.
Ollie Watkins is open to joining Arsenal this month following a shock bid, but Aston Villa are determined to keep the England striker.According to reports, Arsenal have made a move for Watkins as they look to bolster their attacking options in the January transfer window. The Gunners are in need of a proven goal scorer and see Watkins as the perfect fit to lead their frontline.
Watkins, who has impressed since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020, is said to be open to the idea of joining Arsenal and testing himself at a bigger club. The 25-year-old has scored 8 goals in 20 Premier League appearances this season and has caught the eye of several top clubs.
However, Aston Villa are determined to keep hold of their star striker and have no intention of selling him this month. The Midlands club see Watkins as a key player in their push for European qualification and are not willing to let him go without a fight.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will be able to convince Aston Villa to part ways with Watkins, but it is clear that the Gunners are keen to add the talented forward to their ranks. With the transfer window open, this saga is sure to develop in the coming days. Keep an eye on this space for all the latest updates.
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#Ollie #Watkins #open #joining #Arsenal #month #shock #bid #Aston #Villa #determined #England #strikerOllie Watkins: Aston Villa striker open to Arsenal move in January transfer window – Paper Talk | Football News
The top stories and transfer rumours from Friday’s newspapers…
DAILY MAIL
Ollie Watkins would be open to joining Arsenal this month but Aston Villa are determined to keep the England international.
Marco Asensio is one of a number of attacking players Aston Villa are eyeing as Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad before the transfer window closes on February 3.
Manchester United have had to push back Patrick Dorgu’s medical with the club just days before Deadline Day because the relevant documentation and contracts were not completed on time for the original test.
Manchester City have hinted at a major boost regarding the fitness of Rodri, with the club set to name him in their 25-player Champions League squad for the knockout stages despite a serious knee injury that has kept him out since September.
Reigning champions Oval Invincibles were the first of the eight Hundred teams to agree a private investment deal on Thursday when the owners of Mumbai Indians secured a 49 per cent stake for £60m.
Newcastle are set to engage architects to lead the redesign of St James’ Park or a new build on nearby Leazes Park.
The prospect of an emotional return for Mauricio Pochettino to Tottenham in the event of Ange Postecoglou leaving is very unlikely.
Sean Longstaff is set to rebuff Premier League interest and fight for his place at Newcastle.
Rafa Benitez has ruled himself out of the running for the head coach vacancy at Botafogo.
Newcastle are very unlikely to do any transfer business before Monday night’s deadline.
Crystal Palace midfielder Cheick Doucoure is out for the season after suffering another serious injury.
Sportsbank, the investment vehicle who have entered into an exclusivity agreement to take part-control at Crystal Palace, could make a move into domestic cricket.
Bournemouth want to secure a loan deal for a new striker before next week’s transfer deadline, with first-choice Evanilson still around five weeks away from being available, and back-up centre forward Enes Unal out long-term with a serious knee injury.
Crystal Palace are working on a deal for Juventus defender Tiago Djalo, 24, who will have to cut short his loan with Porto before transferring to Palace.
Newcastle have held talks with Malaga winger Antonio Cordero over a pre-contract agreement.
THE SUN
Al Nassr are weighing up a shock move for Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic.
Chelsea are ready to go right to the wire in their plans to land Alejandro Garnacho.
Barcelona could play the final two games of their LaLiga season in a third division stadium.
THE INDEPENDENT
Chelsea are interested in Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, although any move is likelier in the summer.
THE TIMES
Tottenham have reached a verbal agreement with Bayern Munich over a deal worth about £50m for Mathys Tel, with the forward set to decide whether to join Spurs or wait for other interested clubs.
The Saudi Pro League has launched another spending spree before its transfer market shuts on Friday, with Al Nassr ready to spend a combined £140m to bring in Kaoru Mitoma and Jhon Duran.
Kevin De Bruyne is open to the possibility of extending his contract with Manchester City.
DAILY TELEGRAPH
Aston Villa remain adamant they do not want to sell Ollie Watkins as it emerged Arsenal’s opening offer was around half the price the Midlands club value him at.
Jordan Henderson is in talks over a free transfer from Ajax to Monaco.
English cricket raised more than £100m on the first day of the Hundred franchise sale after stakes were sold to Asia’s richest family and the Tom Brady-backed American investment fund that owns Birmingham City.
Pep Guardiola is ready to register Rodri for the Champions League knockout stages in the hope that the Ballon d’Or winner can return from his serious knee injury this season to play in the latter stages of the competition.
THE ATHLETIC
Marco Asensio and Joao Felix are among the list of options Aston Villa are considering as they aim to recruit an attacker this window.
Watford are close to concluding a loan deal for Chelsea left-back Caleb Wiley.
Arsenal are optimistic David Raya will be available for selection against Manchester City on Sunday.
Sergio Ramos is in talks with Monterrey over a possible move to the Mexican club but no formal proposal has been received.
Barcelona have asked for an extension to play El Clasico at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys with the stadium now unlikely to host a Rolling Stones concert on the same weekend as the La Liga match against Real Madrid.
THE GUARDIAN
Aston Villa are weighing up a move for Matheus Cunha with Jhon Duran expected to finalise his transfer to Al Nassr on Thursday.
The Rugby Football Union would consider staging England matches during the Six Nations on Friday nights if it works for broadcasters amid a push from organisers for unions to show more flexibility on kick-off times.
Middlesex’s chief executive, Andrew Cornish, has risked antagonising the England and Wales Cricket Board by appearing to criticise a central element of the counties’ new diversity rules that come into force on Saturday.
DAILY MIRROR
Jordan Henderson has been stripped of the Ajax captaincy after his bid to force a departure away from the Dutch club took a dramatic turn.
Paris Saint-Germain were the only club in Europe to spend more money in the international transfer market last year than Manchester United.
Arsenal are among the top European clubs currently tracking Adana Demirspor’s teenage goalkeeper Deniz Donmezer.
DAILY RECORD
Celtic are reportedly looking at Manchester United full-back Tyrell Malacia as an alternative if they fail to bring Kieran Tierney back to Parkhead this month.
THE SCOTTISH SUN
David Gray has insisted he never lost faith in his ability to manage Hibernian.
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Ollie Watkins: Aston Villa striker open to Arsenal move in January transfer window – Paper TalkAston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has reportedly expressed his openness to a potential move to Arsenal in the upcoming January transfer window. The 25-year-old has been in impressive form for Villa since joining from Brentford last season, scoring 10 goals in 23 appearances so far this campaign.
According to reports, Watkins is believed to be eager to test himself at a higher level and sees Arsenal as a suitable destination to further his career. The Gunners, who are currently struggling in the Premier League, are said to be monitoring the situation closely and could make a move for the English forward in January.
Watkins’ versatility, pace, and goal-scoring ability have caught the eye of several top clubs, with Arsenal looking to bolster their attacking options in the winter transfer window. The striker’s potential move to the Emirates Stadium would provide Mikel Arteta’s side with a much-needed boost in their quest for success this season.
It remains to be seen whether a deal will materialize between Aston Villa and Arsenal, but Watkins’ desire to make the switch could play a crucial role in negotiations. The January transfer window promises to be an exciting one, with plenty of potential moves on the horizon. Stay tuned for more updates on Ollie Watkins and his future in the Premier League.
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#Ollie #Watkins #Aston #Villa #striker #open #Arsenal #move #January #transfer #window #Paper #Talk #Football #NewsArsenal ‘Talks Advancing’ to Sign Ollie Watkins in £60m Deal, he Wants Move
Arsenal could be about to enter talks for the marquee signing of the January transfer window, according to a report – with Aston Villa reportedly being approached for striker Ollie Watkins, as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his striking ranks before the window closes next week.
Arsenal have recently lost Gabriel Jesus to a season-ending knee injury, and with Eddie Nketiah being sold to Crystal Palace in the summer, it means that only Kai Havertz is capable of leading the line in the current market. The club’s search for a striker is no surprise – however a shock link to Watkins could see one of the Premier League‘s most stunning January transfers of all time, with a report claiming that it will take a fee of £60million to land the England star.
The report by Twitter account @TheSecretScout_ claims that Arsenal have approached Villa to sign Watkins, with a fee in the region of £60million being floated.
There hasn’t been an agreement or a decision just yet, but talks with Villa and the player’s representatives are advancing, with Arsenal aiming to land the forward before Monday’s deadline. Villa, if they do lose Watkins, would look to bring in Joao Felix – but only before Watkins’ possible departure. Crucially, the Villans hero is thought to want the move.
Having been at Villa for the past four-and-a-half years, Watkins has been the club’s best out-and-out striker for some time. Already registering 10 Premier League goals at the club this season, he notched 19 in all competitions last season when the Villans finished fourth to qualify for the Champions League. And, with 69 goals and 31 assists marking his century of goal contributions in the Premier League inside just 169 games, Watkins is no doubt one of the league’s top strikers at present.
His talismanic nature means that the Gunners could look to spring a surprise on Liverpool in the title race, currently sitting just six points behind the league leaders albeit having played a game more – and Watkins’ decisive nature in the final third could prove vital for Arteta in the second half of the campaign.
According to recent reports, talks between Arsenal and Aston Villa are said to be advancing in a potential deal for striker Ollie Watkins. The Gunners are reportedly willing to pay around £60 million to secure the services of the talented forward, who has expressed his desire to make the move to North London.Watkins, who has been in fine form for Villa this season, scoring 14 goals in the Premier League, is seen as a key target for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their attacking options. The 25-year-old has impressed with his pace, movement, and finishing ability, making him a coveted asset for many top clubs.
It is believed that Watkins is keen on the prospect of joining Arsenal and playing under manager Mikel Arteta, who has reportedly identified him as a key target for the upcoming transfer window. With talks progressing between the two clubs, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be finalized in the coming weeks.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that the club can secure the signing of Watkins, as they look to bolster their squad and mount a stronger challenge in the Premier League next season. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing transfer story.
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#Arsenal #Talks #Advancing #Sign #Ollie #Watkins #60m #Deal #MoveArsenal make shock bid for Ollie Watkins: Aston Villa reject offer for star striker as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking force before the transfer window slams shut
Arsenal have launched a stunning swoop for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins ahead of next week’s transfer deadline.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is a long-term admirer of the England international and the club have now moved for the 29-year-old.
It is understood Arsenal have made an initial offer for Watkins which has been rejected but an improved attempt is expected.
Watkins still has three years to run on his existing deal at Villa Park and is a key player for Unai Emery’s side.
However, a move to Arsenal may appeal to Watkins, who has admitted he grew up as an Arsenal fan.
Whilst playing for Brentford, the forward said in 2020: ‘That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a long shot.’
Arsenal have seen a shock bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected by the club
Mikel Arteta’s side are keen to bolster their attacking options in the January transfer window
Watkins found the back of the net during Aston Villa’s recent 2-2 draw with Arsenal
The 29-year-old played a vital role in England’s run to the Euro 2024 final during the summer
Nevertheless, Emirates chiefs have identified the forward as the man they believe can ignite their title challenge as they look to haul down Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table.
Villa, however, will believe they are in a strong position given Watkins’ contractual situation and it remains to be seen whether the Gunners can successfully pull off what would be one of the most eye-catching transfers of the January window.
Watkins has scored 10 goals in 31 appearances for Villa this season, one of those coming in the recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates.
In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal have made a shock bid for Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins. The Gunners are looking to bolster their attacking force before the transfer window slams shut, and have identified Watkins as a top target.However, Aston Villa have swiftly rejected Arsenal’s offer for the talented forward, with manager Dean Smith determined to hold onto his key player. Watkins has been in impressive form for Villa since joining from Brentford last season, and has caught the eye of several top clubs with his performances.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen to add more firepower to his squad, and sees Watkins as a perfect fit for his attacking system. The Gunners have struggled for goals in recent seasons, and Arteta is hopeful that Watkins could provide the cutting edge they have been missing.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will make an improved offer for Watkins, or if they will turn their attention to other targets in the final days of the transfer window. But one thing is for sure – the Gunners are determined to strengthen their squad as they look to challenge for silverware this season.
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Everton 0-1 Aston Villa: David Moyes’ return ruined by Ollie Watkins winner in Premier League
Some 4,266 days since last taking charge of an Everton home match – a 2-0 victory over a side he would later go on to manage in West Ham – Moyes was back in the dugout at Goodison Park and witnessed the monumental job he has walked in to.
Moyes, 61, is the oldest manager currently in the top flight and he will need to use all those years of experience as he attempts to keep the Blues afloat come May.
Dyche managed to salvage survival on two occasions, but having won only three times this season Moyes faces a colossal task to ensure the club maintains its proud record of being ever-present in the Premier League.
Goals win games, and Everton have not claimed enough victories because of their struggles in putting the ball in the back of the net – they have scored just 15 times in 20 games this term, with only bottom side Southampton faring worse with 12.
Moyes said on Monday that Calvert-Lewin needs to get his scoring boots back on, but the striker has now gone 16 games without a goal, a run stretching back to September, and had plenty of chances to give his boss a winning return.
The first was flashed wide after he made a good run, but he showed signs of a player bereft of confidence when another opportunity fell to him inside the box, unable to sort his feet out quickly enough before stabbing a meek effort at goal.
His best opportunity came deep in added time when Jesper Lindstrom fed a pass to Calvert-Lewin in front of goal, but the forward scooped a first-time shot over the crossbar from eight yards out, much to Moyes’ and the crowd’s dismay.
Villa kept Everton largely at arm’s length after scoring, leaving the hosts with one win in their past 11 games and failing to score in nine of those.
Everton’s hopes of a successful return for manager David Moyes were dashed as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Aston Villa in the Premier League. Ollie Watkins’ second-half goal was enough to secure all three points for the visitors and spoil Moyes’ homecoming.Despite dominating possession for much of the game, Everton were unable to find a way past Villa’s resolute defense. The visitors, on the other hand, were clinical in front of goal, with Watkins pouncing on a defensive error to score the only goal of the match.
Moyes, who was making his first appearance at Goodison Park since returning to Everton for a second spell as manager, will be disappointed with the result. The Scot will now have to regroup and prepare his team for their next challenge as they look to climb up the Premier League table.
Villa, on the other hand, will be delighted with their performance and the three points earned on the road. The win sees them move up to fifth in the league table and continue their impressive start to the season.
Overall, it was a frustrating day for Everton and Moyes, but Villa will be celebrating a hard-fought victory as they continue to impress in the Premier League.
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