Arsenal should re-ignite their interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins amid reports of stalled negotiations with Benjamin Sesko.
The Gunners are in talks with Sesko over a deal to bring him to the Emirates, after they have reportedly agreed a fee with RB Leipzig to sign the Slovenian international. However, it has been reported that Sesko’s wage demands have caused Arsenal to consider backing out of a move for the 22-year-old.
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With that in mind, the Gunners could turn their attention to alternative target Viktor Gyokeres who has also been linked with Man United. But Gyokeres is also expected to have hefty wage demands, so the Gunners could decide against him too.
Arsenal should sign Ollie Watkins instead
One name that hasn’t been mentioned much this summer is Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins, who Arsenal bid on in the January transfer window. It was reported that Arsenal offered £40m to sign Watkins, a bid that was rejected by Villa, who would likely want at least £60m for the England international.
At the time, Watkins decided not to hide his love for Arsenal, as he is a boyhood fan, however, he ended up staying at Villa Park. There has been no indication suggesting Arsenal will make another move for Watkins, but they should consider it amid the Sesko stalled negotiations.
Watkins is proven in the Premier League, he has a love for Arsenal so will be passionate, and is likely to cost less than a deal for either Sesko or Gyokeres. Last season, the 29-year-old was excellent, scoring 17 goals and providing 14 assists in 54 games; he would be a less risky option compared to Sesko as he has already shown that he can deliver in the Premier League.
The Gunners could face competition for Watkins
If Arsenal do decide to make a move for Watkins, they may have to battle with Premier League rivals, as it has been reported that Man United are interested in signing the England international.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, United are considering a move for Watkins as priority target Gyokeres is holding out for a move to Arsenal.
The Gunners would surely be able to stave off interest from United though as Watkins is not only an Arsenal fan, but they can also offer him the lure of Champions League football.
Click here to see Arsenal’s first team squad with individual profiles for every player.