Arsenal have been linked with a summer move for Ollie Watkins
09:32, 25 Jul 2026
Ollie Watkins' dream move is no secret, amid renewed speculation linking the Aston Villa striker with Arsenal.
Watkins, one of the Premier League's most reliable goalscorers, is once again being touted for a departure from Villa Park. According to The Sun, the Gunners and Manchester United are keeping tabs on the 30-year-old, who has also been the subject of interest from Fenerbahce.
Watkins would represent a proven option and there are suggestions that a bid of £40m could be sufficient to lure him away from Unai Emery's side. While the appeal of United would be considerable, the prospect of joining Arsenal would hold particular allure for the self-confessed Gunners supporter.
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In remarks that have stayed with him ever since, Watkins, then at Brentford, once said: "I'm an Arsenal fan, so Thierry Henry was my [idol]. He's unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up really."
Watkins revisited his affection for Arsenal after scoring against them for Villa, saying: "I'm not sure my grandad or uncle Baz are going to be too happy.
"They are Arsenal fans and I am an Arsenal fan myself, but I'm buzzing. I am sure they will love it really. I am over the moon."
Therefore, should it come down to a straight choice between United and Arsenal, it is evident which direction Watkins would lean. While the Gunners are monitoring his situation, their immediate priority appears to be securing Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez.
A cash-plus-player deal involving Viktor Gyokeres has been suggested. But with Atleti digging their heels in, the Gunners may turn their attention to Watkins.
Emery has frequently deflected questions regarding his first-choice striker. Speaking 18 months ago, the Spaniard said: "I don't want [to sell]. It is good news to have offers from other clubs. We want to keep our sporting objective through the players we have in the squad.
"Every player can be in the market if it is good for the player and the club. To get this deal, we are going to be demanding. Watkins is our striker.
"We are working, the club is working and trying to compete in the transfer window because we need some players. Some can leave, but it is not the time to speak about it."
Despite securing Champions League qualification, Villa have faced pressure to adhere to financial fair play regulations. Consequently, it would come as little surprise if they opted to sell Watkins, with Arsenal among the clubs ready to take advantage.
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