Aston Villa’s financial situation might force them into a significant sale this summer, with reports suggesting they could cash in on Ollie Watkins amid concerns over breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
According to Football Insider, Villa’s failure to secure Champions League qualification has left them on precarious financial footing. Despite an official complaint lodged after a controversial 2-0 loss to Manchester United, a result that sealed their fate, Villa now face the prospect of making tough squad decisions.
Ollie Watkins on the market?
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Watkins, one of Villa’s standout performers this season with 31 goal contributions, is reportedly unsettled following the club’s end-of-season frustrations. His productivity has attracted attention before from Arsenal, who were rebuffed in a January approach for the striker.
As a boyhood Arsenal fan, Watkins has long harbored dreams of playing at the Emirates. With Emiliano Martinez also expected to leave this summer, Villa may decide that selling Watkins, at a high price, is the best way to balance the books before a PSR deadline.
Arsenal’s evolving transfer strategy
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While the prospect of Watkins becoming available might intrigue some, Arsenal’s current recruitment drive seems to be moving in a different direction. Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are both reportedly ahead of Watkins on Andrea Berta’s shortlist for a new number nine, reflecting a desire for a younger, long-term solution to Mikel Arteta’s striker conundrum.
Sesko’s youth and upside, combined with Gyokeres’ prolific form in Portugal, position them as more likely targets, especially given Arsenal’s intention to build a team capable of sustained dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
Could Arsenal re-enter the race?
While Watkins’ availability is sure to catch the eye of top clubs, including Arsenal, the North London club’s interest may have cooled after the failed January bid. With the Gunners actively pursuing other targets, a move for the Villa striker feels less likely unless circumstances shift dramatically.
Still, in a summer where transfer dominoes can fall quickly, Watkins’ name may not be completely off the table. For now, though, it seems Arsenal are focused elsewhere.
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