Rio Ferdinand backs Ollie Watkins for Arsenal move amid transfer speculation in the Watkins Arsenal Transfer saga.
Former Manchester United defender and football pundit Rio Ferdinand has voiced his support for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins on Arsenal transfer, stating that the forward “deserves” a move to Arsenal this summer. Ferdinand’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about Arsenal’s search for a new striker, with Watkins emerging as a potential target for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal had previously submitted a £40 million bid for Watkins during the January transfer window, but their approach was rejected by Aston Villa, who instead sold Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr for £65 million. Despite the setback, Arsenal may reignite their interest in Watkins as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Watkins has raised doubts about his future at Villa Park after expressing frustration over being benched by Unai Emery during both legs of the club’s Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain. His dissatisfaction could pave the way for a potential exit, with Arsenal seen as a suitable destination.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Ferdinand praised Watkins for his Aston Villa’s success, particularly their qualification for the Champions League. He highlighted Watkins’ unconventional journey to the top, noting that the striker had worked his way up without the backing of an academy system.
“I think he’s a cult hero here,” Ferdinand said. “He’s one of the main reasons why they’re playing Champions League football and competing at this level. For any defender, he’s a hard day’s work—100 percent. He’s added quality to his game over the last few years. His route to the top hasn’t been conventional, no academies, he’s worked his way here and he deserves everything he gets. I wasn’t surprised Arsenal came in for him because I think he deserves that given the performances and the output he’s been putting in.”
Arsenal is actively looking for a new striker to bolster their squad, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko also on their shortlist. Watkins’ ability to play across the front line, combined with his pace and technical skills, makes him an attractive option for Arteta’s tactical setup.
With Arsenal keen to strengthen their attack and Watkins potentially seeking a fresh challenge, a summer move to the Emirates could be on the horizon. Ferdinand’s endorsement adds weight to the speculation, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will make another attempt to secure the striker’s signature.
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