Another Premier League club has been linked with Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa(Image: Getty Images)
Newcastle United have reportedly discussed the possibility of a summer move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
According to the Daily Mail, the Villa forward and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa are two names mentioned during recruitment meetings.
However, Villa would likely be unwilling to sell to a direct rival for Champions League qualification, and Watkins himself may resist a role that involves competing with Alexander Isak for a starting spot.
Since Unai Emery’s arrival at Villa Park, Watkins has proven himself to be one of the Premier League’s top forwards, so interest from several clubs comes as no surprise.
That said, Villa are under no pressure to conduct a fire sale this summer, despite missing out on Champions League football.
There may be one significant departure, potentially Emi Martínez, who turns 33 later this year and is among the club’s highest earners.
Watkins, meanwhile, is reportedly valued at up to £60 million. Villa previously dismissed a tentative £40 million offer from Arsenal back in January.
The Gunners now appear to have moved on from Watkins in their search for a new No. 9, as they close in on signing Viktor Gyökeres.
Manchester United are also said to hold an interest in Watkins, though any potential move reportedly depends on Rasmus Højlund leaving Old Trafford.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, a move away from Villa could be a risk for Watkins, who will be eager not only to secure a spot in the England squad but to challenge Harry Kane for a starting role.