Arsenal make big decision on their search for a new striker and Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins has been linked
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins(Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal appear to have moved on from their interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.
Mikel Arteta has been searching for a new striker to lead the Arsenal frontline this summer and is known to be a fan of Watkins.
However, the 29-year-old was always seen as a more cost-effective option, with Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres given higher priority.
The latest update is that Arsenal have made the big decision to advance talks with Sporting over a deal to sign Gyökeres.
While a deal for the former Coventry City marksman is not yet complete, discussions over a transfer fee are progressing well, according to The Athletic.
Personal terms for the Sweden international are reportedly agreed upon, with a five-year contract in place.
Gyökeres is said to be excited about the prospect of moving to the capital, having prioritised Arsenal over other interested clubs.
As for Watkins, this likely ends Arsenal’s pursuit of him - at least for this transfer window.
However, Manchester United may still test Villa’s resolve over the England international in the coming weeks, as he remains among their options to potentially replace Rasmus Højlund.
Villa are thought to value Watkins at around £60 million but are not conducting a fire sale, despite needing to reduce their wage bill this summer.
After exceeding UEFA’s 80 percent wage-to-revenue ratio in 2024, the club was fined and has since committed to lowering their salary expenses.
That’s one reason why Emi Martínez - who turns 33 in September - could also leave the club this summer, as he is open to starting a new challenge.
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