Former Villa man confirms Arsenal interest in Watkins | OneFootball

Arsenal Interest in Ollie Watkins Confirmed by Monchi

Former Aston Villa President of Football Operations Monchi has revealed that Arsenal expressed interest in signing Ollie Watkins during the January transfer window, though no formal offers were made. The Gunners reportedly explored the possibility of acquiring the striker, but Villa remained firm on their valuation.

Monchi, who served at Villa for over two years, was a key figure in the club’s development under Unai Emery. During his tenure, the club offloaded Diego Carlos, Jadon Philogene, and Jhon Duran for close to £100million, with Duran completing a high-profile move to Al-Nassr, according to Birmingham Live.

“There was real interest in Watkins from Arsenal in the January transfer window,” Monchi told Flashscore. “In this summer market there has been no formal offer.”

Villa Stand Firm Amid Transfer Speculation

Arsenal’s pursuit of Watkins reportedly created challenges, but Aston Villa refused to sell their leading striker for anything less than £60million. Monchi highlighted that the club has been a focal point in a busy transfer market, with interest not only in Watkins, but also in Morgan, Matty Cash, Konsa, and McGinn.

“Let’s see, in three months there is almost a summer, because every time the markets start earlier and earlier. There is not only interest for Ollie, for Morgan, for Matty Cash, Konsa, for McGinn, for everyone because in such an extensive market, in a squad with such good players and who also come from two magnificent seasons, there are rumours, but there were no formal offers,” Monchi explained.

Arsenal ultimately turned their attention elsewhere, signing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP for £63.5million after Watkins and Benjamin Sesko were linked with the Emirates Stadium. Despite ongoing speculation, Watkins remained at Villa and continued to be a key figure for the Midlands club.

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Monchi Reflects on Villa Tenure and Departure

Speaking about his decision to leave Villa, Monchi reflected positively on his time at the club. “After two very successful years, the next step was consolidation in the elite… after a lot of wear and tear, maybe new faces were needed… We agreed it was best for everyone.”

He praised the city and its welcome, describing his time in Birmingham as “magnificent.” “It’s been a city that has welcomed me very well… I enjoyed two and a half magnificent years. I lived in the centre, St. Paul’s Square, close to the city centre and relatively close to Bodymoor [training ground].”

Monchi also admitted he missed Spain, particularly Seville and San Fernando, but holds fond memories of his time in the UK. “For a public person, Birmingham is perfect. I could go out in the street practically without being recognised. Of course I missed Spain, especially Seville/San Fernando, but I have very fond memories of Birmingham.”

Arsenal Monitoring Premier League Stars

While Watkins was not acquired, Arsenal remain alert to top Premier League talent. Monchi’s comments underline the Gunners’ ongoing strategy to monitor established and emerging players across the division. The January window may not have seen Watkins join Arsenal, but interest in key Premier League performers is unlikely to fade as the Gunners continue to strengthen their squad.

Monchi’s insight highlights the careful approach clubs must take in a busy market, balancing player retention, valuations, and the ambitions of potential suitors such as Arsenal.