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Aston Villa rebuff offer for star forward as Mikel Arteta attempts to bolster his attacking force prior to transfer deadline
Aston Villa has rejected Arsenal’s official bid for striker Ollie Watkins, who is valued at around £60 million, according to the Daily Mail. The bid was turned down primarily due to the timing, as Villa is gearing up for a crucial Champions League match against Celtic. Villa’s management felt that the offer was not only untimely but also undervalued Watkins’ contributions to the team.
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Ollie Watkins, who has been a standout performer for Villa since joining from Brentford in 2020, has scored 80 goals in 200 appearances for the club. His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his attacking options amid injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Watkins, a lifelong Arsenal fan, has openly expressed his desire to play for the Gunners at some point in his career.
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Despite the rejection, Arsenal is expected to make an improved offer before the transfer window closes. Watkins’ potential move to Arsenal has sparked a lot of interest among fans and analysts alike, given his proven track record and ability to perform at the highest level.
Villa’s decision to reject Arsenal’s bid highlights their commitment to maintaining a strong squad ahead of their Champions League campaign. The club’s management believes that Watkins’ presence is crucial for their success in Europe and is unwilling to part ways with him at this stage.
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