‘Interesting’: David Ornstein shares what he’s now heard about Ollie Watkins amid Arsenal links

Arsenal Continue Striker Search Amid Ollie Watkins Stance

 

Arsenal are in the market for a top-class striker this summer as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. While the Gunners have been linked with a host of names, two forwards have emerged as the primary targets in recent weeks: RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres.

 

Both players are seen as high-potential, long-term additions capable of fitting into Arteta’s dynamic frontline. Sesko, in particular, has been heavily discussed in connection with a potential Emirates switch, while Gyökeres has reportedly been the subject of persistent internal discussions at Arsenal. However, with competition for both players fierce and their price tags substantial, the Gunners are reportedly keeping their options open.

 

One name that continues to linger in the background is Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins. The England international has previously attracted interest from Arsenal, with a formal bid believed to have been submitted during the January transfer window. Though that move was unsuccessful, there are fresh rumours that Watkins remains firmly on Arsenal’s shortlist as a possible ‘Plan C’ should deals for either Sesko or Gyökeres fall through.

 

Renowned journalist David Ornstein offered some insight into Watkins’ current situation during a recent appearance on The Athletic, sharing details from his conversations with those close to Aston Villa.

 

Ornstein: Villa Have No Intention of Selling Watkins

 

Ornstein confirmed that Watkins is indeed admired across the Premier League, including by top-six clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United. However, any hope of a transfer this summer appears slim.

 

“Ollie Watkins is among those on Manchester United’s recruitment list,” Ornstein said. “I’d be surprised if he wasn’t on most top clubs’ lists — he’s a top striker and an exemplary professional.”

 

Ornstein added that discussions have taken place between interested parties and Watkins’ representatives, but he also clarified that Aston Villa’s position remains firm.

 

“From the conversations I’ve had with people at Villa, they’ve made it very clear they have no intention whatsoever of letting Watkins go. He’s absolutely central to their plans moving forward. He’s Premier League proven, has a strong goal-scoring record, and brings tremendous physical presence to the front line. Watkins is the kind of player clubs like Arsenal admire, but that doesn’t mean Villa are going to part with him.”

 

Watkins Happy at Villa Amid Arsenal Interest

 

While Arsenal are said to retain admiration for Watkins, it’s worth noting that the striker himself has repeatedly expressed happiness with life at Aston Villa. After putting pen to paper on a new long-term contract last season, Watkins spoke glowingly of the club and his connection with both the fans and head coach Unai Emery.

 

“I’m really happy,” Watkins said at the time, via Villa’s official website. “I feel like this is the best place for me to play my football; I’ve still got a lot to achieve here.”

 

He also highlighted the bond he shares with supporters: “I feel like I’ve had a really good connection with the fans since I’ve come here. From day one they’ve been really good with me; we’ve had highs and lows but that’s football.”

 

Watkins concluded by speaking about the club’s trajectory under Emery: “You can see the direction of the club, and I want to be a part of that.”

 

Champions League Ambitions and a Promising Future

 

Aston Villa narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot last season, falling just short in a tightly contested top-four race. Still, their qualification for the Europa League and steady progress under Emery have made Villa Park an exciting place to be.

 

Watkins played a crucial role in their rise, finishing the campaign as the club’s top scorer and earning widespread praise for his performances. Given his upward trajectory, settled environment, and the ambitious project unfolding at Villa, it’s no surprise that the club are determined to retain him.

 

As it stands, while Arsenal’s striker search continues and Watkins remains admired, a move to north London looks unlikely unless circumstances dramatically change. For now, it appears the Gunners will have to turn their attention elsewhere — and Watkins looks set to remain the spearhead of Villa’s attack as they prepare for another European campaign.