Arsenal Set For Second Bid For This Aston Villa Striker: Good Choice? | OneFootball

Sky Sports have reported that Arsenal will be making their second bid to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins in this winter transfer window. They have been interested in the player since the start of the transfer window and have also made an opening bid. However, their first bid for the English international was rejected.

Watkins has been one of the top strikers in the Premier League since he joined Aston Villa from Brentford in the summer transfer window of 2020. Watkins has scored 10 goals in 23 matches so far in the Premier League 2024/2025 season. Six of the 10 goals were scored at home, while he scored four goals at away games.

Overall, Watkins’s goals scored per 90 minutes is 0.56. Moreover, his total G/A (goals + assists) is 15 for this season. His goal involvement equates to 0.84 per 90 minutes. His non-penalty xG per 90 minutes is 0.52. This puts Ollie Watkins’s npxG output at 8.92. His performances have attracted the attention of quite a number of clubs, and Arsenal are at the top of the list.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JANUARY 29: Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa scores his team’s third goal past during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between Aston Villa FC and Celtic FC at Villa Park on January 29, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Why does Arsenal want him so desperately?

The Gunners need a striker for consistent goals, as they have struggled this season. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have not been clinical in front of the goal. Moreover, Jesus and Bukayo Saka have been sidelined with injuries right now, and hence Arsenal are looking for Watkins as the striker.

He is known for his exceptional work ethic and versatility on the pitch. His key traits include remarkable pace, allowing him to exploit spaces behind defences, and his ability to press relentlessly, making him a vital part of Villa’s high-pressing game. Watkins has demonstrated a knack for scoring, with a sharp eye for goals and an impressive ability to finish clinically. His adaptability is highlighted by his capacity to play not just as a central striker but also on the wings. So, Arsenal should definitely prepare for the next bid.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Asena put forward a £60 million opening bid for Watkins. It remains to be seen what bid Mikel Arteta’s side put forward as the second bid. The last days of the transfer window will be quite interesting for the Gunners.