Arsenal are interested in signing Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins, according to reports in the English media.

The 25-year-old is believed to be a target, along with Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, for the January transfer window as the Gunners anticipate the departure of Alexandre Lacazette.

Watkins has had a thing or two to say about moving to Arsenal in the past. In the months leading up to his transfer to Villa last year, when he was still at Brentford, the striker revealed it was an ambition of his to play for the London club:

“That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day, but you know, it’s a longshot.”

After scoring twice at the Emirates for Villa in the 3-0 win in November 2020, Watkins went even further to confirm that both he and his family are Gunners supporters:

“I’m not sure my granddad 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.”

Combined with the fact that he idolised Thierry Henry growing up, it appears Arsenal would have a massive chance of securing Watkins’s signature IF they can agree a fee with Villa.

The Midlands club have TWO Billionaire owners so expect them to play hardball in negotiations for the player.