Newcastle United could return for Watkins after latest transfer blow
Aston Villa have been braced for Premier League bids for Ollie Watkins this summer.
The striker received significant interest from Arsenal in January, but the Villans ultimately decided against selling the Englishman following Jhon Duran’s departure.
But this summer would provide Villa with the chance to seek an alternative, with Porto forward Samu Aghehowa among those under consideration at Villa Park.
Unai Emery has welcomed just one player to his squad this summer, despite the departures of Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio.
Newcastle United could return for Watkins
Newcastle United have been among the clubs to show interest in Watkins this summer, with Manchester United also keen.
But both clubs appeared to opt for the younger option in Benjamin Sesko, with the Slovenian still to decide on his next destination.
Manchester United appear to have jumped ahead in the race, however, after making a bid worth around £74million, according to David Ornstein (5 August).
Decision-makers at Old Trafford believe the player prefers a move to the Red Devils this summer, despite the lack of European competition.
| Ollie Watkins | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 38 |
| Goals | 16 |
| Assists | 8 |
Sesko’s decision could start a chain reaction of striker moves, with Alexander Isak still keen to leave Newcastle United and join Liverpool this summer.
The Magpies have reluctantly agreed to open negotiations with the Reds, provided that a replacement is lined up.
Sesko had looked to be that replacement, but Eddie Howe could now turn to Watkins, though Villa’s willingness to sell the striker at this stage of the window is unclear.
The Premier League’s return is less than two weeks away, and negotiating a deal to sign Aghehowa would be, by no means, a swift process.
Villa must hold strong in Watkins negotiations
There would be possible benefits to selling Watkins for Villa. The fee received for the forward would loosen the intensity of the Profit and Sustainability Rules currently restricting the West Midlands outfit, and allow them to strengthen throughout the squad.
But a key departure at this stage of the window would be a tough pill to swallow for Emery.
If it comes to it, Villa must ensure the fee they receive is worth it for the situation it promises.
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