Arsenal are looking at ways to bolster their squad for the coming season, and they are ready to look at the Premier League to do it.
The Gunners have signed Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis so far this summer, while Leandro Trossard has departed for Besiktas as Mikel Arteta looks to freshen things up in an attempt to make history by winning back-to-back league titles for the first time in the club's history.
A number of first-team players are expected to be allowed to leave the Emirates Stadium as a result, and Arteta has identified one star as a potential reinforcement in attack who could come in as a replacement.
Arsenal Eyeing Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins Calls Arne Slot's Liverpool 'Disjointed' After Aston Villa Win
Ollie Watkins Calls Arne Slot's Liverpool 'Disjointed' After Aston Villa Win
According to a report by The Sun, Arsenal are considering renewing their interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins this summer.
Watkins, who has been described as 'elite', is Villa's top goalscorer in Premier League history, and was linked with a big-money move to north London in January 2025, but a move never materialised.
But with Gabriel Jesus expected to depart before the new season starts, Arsenal are monitoring the England international's situation at Villa Park with a view to making a formal move for him later in the window.
Fenerbahce were considering a £30m offer for the 30-year-old, but Villa made it clear they would not accept at that price, and a move went no further. However, it's understood that they could be more receptive to an offer worth around £40m, which has sparked interest from Arsenal.
Arteta has put Watkins near the top of their shortlist for forward signings, and Villa's financial situation has led to confidence that they could be able to get a deal done if they push hard. However, as things stand, Villa are determined to keep him, having already lost Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Lucas Digne.
Konsa and Watkins Would Be Top Arrivals
Ollie Watkins Aston Villa
Arsenal have been taking a close look at Villa this summer, with Rogers a top target before he joined Chelsea, and a strong interest in defender Ezri Konsa too.
Watkins, much like Konsa, is playing at the top of his game right now, and it could be the last chance for them to make the step up to a title-challenger, which would bring plenty of appeal to the players. But it's also worth nothing that both players would be great signings for Arsenal, bringing traits and quality they don't already have.
Villa will fight hard to keep him, and Arsenal have other targets they are prioritising for the position, but Watkins' situation is one to keep a close eye on as the window begins to fire up.
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