Liverpool ready to launch transfer bid to sign Aston Villa star admired by Arne Slot
New Liverpool manager Arne Slot admires Ollie Watkins as he looks to replace Darwin Nunez with the Aston Villa star this summer, according to The Sun.
The Villans are said to be braced for the new Reds boss to launch a bid for the Englishman ahead of his first season in charge.
The Dutchman has doubts over Nunez who could be sold to Barcelona and replaced by Watkins if a deal can be agreed.
This could see Unai Emery consider his options of “potential alternatives” in the transfer window.
Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins linked to Liverpool
The transfer window doesn’t open until mid-June but the rumour mill is well and truly up and running.
Years ago, Villa fans would have been left very worried by the news that a top side was interested in one of their stars.
Look back to 2015 when Liverpool came in and signed Christian Benteke from the Villans which eventually resulted in relegation.
Things are a lot different now with Emery in charge and the club preparing for a Champions League journey next season.
There is no doubt that Watkins had a superb season and as a result, interest in his signature was always going to be there.
With 19 goals and 13 assists in 37 Premier League appearances [FotMob], the Englishman was one of Villa’s most important players, no doubt.
Villa are in the Champions League now with an elite manager and ambitious owners so there is a good chance that Liverpool are told to just go away.
There are some players that won’t be sold no matter the offer and after the season of his life, Watkins will be one of those.
In other Aston Villa news, NSWE have Unai Emery to thank after latest £625m development at Villa Park.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.