Paul Merson has said that Ollie Watkins could have interest from big clubs, amid claims that Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal want to sign the Aston Villa star in the summer transfer window.
The former Arsenal star and Sky Sports pundit has been impressed by how well Watkins has been playing for Villa under manager Unai Emery this season.
Merson believes that bigs club could be after the English striker in the summer transfer window.
The pundit has praised former Arsenal boss Emery for the work he has done with Watkins.
The 27-year-old striker has scored 14 goals and given six assists in 29 Premier League starts for Villa so far this season.
90min have reported that the English striker is close to signing a new contract with Villa.
Transfer reporter Rudy Galetti claimed in March that Arteta was asking Arsenal to sign Watkins.
Paul Merson on Arsenal target and Aston Villa target Ollie Watkins
Merson told SportsKeeda: “With the way Watkins is playing at the moment, big clubs could be interested this year.
“This is what good managers do – they make their players better. Emery has been excellent with his squad and I’m not sure Aston Villa will be able to keep him this year.”
HITC Verdict: Summer transfer unlikely
In our view, Arsenal are unlikely to be able to sign Ollie Wakins from Aston Villa in the summer transfer window if the striker signs a new deal.
Now, of course, we know that all players have a price, but if the striker puts pen to paper on a new deal now, then it is hard to see the Villa’s sell him after a few months.
Watkins is playing regularly for Villa now, and we believe that he would get even better under Emery next season.
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