Arsenal reportedly consider Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as their fail-safe option in the event that their pursuit of either Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres falls through this summer, according to Record.
The bottom line is the Gunners are expected to sign a new striker this summer. Fans have urged the club to revamp the forwards department for quite some time, but the likes of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are set to face new competition for minutes heading into the 2025/26 season.
Arsenal's preferred option for the position remains unclear, however. Reports suggest sporting director Andrea Berta is in contact for both Sesko and Gyokeres, but they may look to turn their attention to Watkins instead if they are unable to reach an agreement.
Arsenal Eyeing Watkins Move
The Englishman is an alternative to Sesko and Gyokeres
As per Record (via Sport Witness), Arsenal are keeping tabs on Watkins as a more affordable solution to their centre-forward woes, as opposed to Gyokeres, who could cost even more than €70 million (£60 million).
Record note that Arsenal feel such a price is too high for the Swedish international and are prepared to walk away and target alternatives instead. But Sesko is unlikely to come much cheaper, and the North Londoners could be asked to pay around £84 million for the 22-year-old.
Ollie Watkins vs Viktor Gyokeres vs Benjamin Sesko - 2024/25 Statistics comparison
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Arsenal were previously interested in signing Watkins during the January transfer window, and they saw a bid close to £45 million turned down, per GIVEMESPORT sources. Aston Villa were in no mood to see the striker leave midway through the season, not long after they had already parted ways with Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr, but they could be more open to a sale for the 29-year-old this summer.
A boyhood Arsenal fan, the "phenomenal" Watkins could be a worthwhile investment for Arteta and his entourage to make, given his extensive experience as one of the best strikers in the Premier League.
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Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 15/06/2025