Robbie Fowler advises Liverpool to consider Ollie Watkins as a Liverpool striker alternative, highlighting the Aston Villa forward’s experience and reliability.
Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has weighed in on the club’s potential summer transfer business, urging the Reds to consider signing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins who was also the subject of a £40m bid from Arsenal in the January window, as an alternative to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak. With Liverpool reportedly in the market for a new No. 9, Fowler believes Watkins could be a valuable addition to the squad, despite not fitting the club’s usual transfer model.
Liverpool’s current forward lineup has seen mixed performances, with Darwin Nunez struggling to cement his place in the starting XI. The Uruguayan striker, signed for £85 million in 2022, has managed only five Premier League goals this season, leading to speculation that he may be on his way out of Anfield. As the club looks to reinforce its attacking options, Isak has emerged as a top target. However, Newcastle’s hefty asking price—reportedly over £100 million—could deter Liverpool from pursuing the Swedish forward.
Fowler, speaking to The i Paper, acknowledged that Watkins does not entirely fit Liverpool’s typical recruitment strategy due to his age (29 years old). However, he emphasized the striker’s proven track record in the Premier League, suggesting that Watkins could be a reliable short-term solution for the club.
“If you look at Isak, he’s going to be £100m plus easily. He’s a wonderful player, but Liverpool may not want to pay that, and they’ll look around,” Fowler stated. “You could look at Ollie Watkins. He doesn’t really fit the model in terms of what Liverpool want, given his age, but I’d go and get him for a couple of years because he’s a tremendous player and established and experienced in the Premier League”.
Watkins has been a standout performer for Aston Villa, registering 15 goals and seven assists in the Premier League this season. His ability to consistently deliver in front of goal makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking a reliable striker. Arsenal had reportedly made a £40 million bid for Watkins in the January transfer window, indicating strong interest in the forward.
Former England midfielder Owen Hargreaves also weighed in on Watkins’ future, suggesting that the striker should consider a move if he feels he isn’t getting enough game time at Villa. “If you’re not happy, play somewhere else, at 29,” Hargreaves remarked.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Liverpool will need to carefully assess their options. If Newcastle’s valuation of Isak proves too steep, Watkins could emerge as a viable alternative. While his age may not align with Liverpool’s long-term strategy, his experience and goal-scoring ability could provide the club with the firepower needed to compete at the highest level.
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