Arsenal have identified Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a potential replacement for Gabriel Jesus this summer, according to The Sun.
The Gunners are evaluating proposals for Jesus, and The Sun report that the growing interest has led manager Mikel Arteta to seek an alternative option.
Watkins is one of the prominent names on the wishlist. Fenerbahce recently contacted Villa over a £30m deal, but the Europa League holders snubbed it right away.
The England international could still leave due to Villa’s tight financial situation.
It is claimed that an offer worth £40m may be considered for Watkins, who scored 21 goals across all competitions for the West Midlands outfit last term.
Arsenal could swoop for Watkins if Jesus leaves
The Gunners have held a long-term interest in Watkins. They explored the possibility of signing him in January last year, but were put off by the £60m price tag.
The speculation has now intensified with Arsenal contemplating the departure of Jesus. The club have already received several enquiries for the Brazil international.
Arsenal are standing firm on their £20m valuation for the former Manchester City man. There is a good possibility that a top European or Saudi outfit could meet the fee.
If that happens, the Gunners could step up their long-term pursuit of Watkins and could be willing to spend another £20m on top of the Jesus fee (£20m) to prise him away.
Villa are looking into the future with Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson having emerged as a top striker target. His arrival could pave the way for Watkins to pursue a fresh challenge.
The big question remains whether Watkins would accept a rotational starting role at Arsenal alongside Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz to secure his dream move.
Watkins has publicly acknowledged that he is a boyhood Arsenal fan, but may have to settle for reduced minutes to join the Premier League champions this summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt