Aston Villa, Derby County and Brentford were all linked with a move for the youngster in January.
After stealing the headlines in League Two this season, Exeter City youngster Ollie Watkins could well be set for big things this summer.
The attacking midfielder, who can also play as a central striker or as a No.10, has scored 10 goals and made eight assists in 28 league appearances this season, bursting onto the scene as one of the hottest properties in the lower divisions.
With Aston Villa, Derby County and Brentford all being linked with a move for Watkins over the course of January by the Exeter Express and Echo, it is hard to see the youngster staying with the Grecians beyond the summer, and as his stock continues to grow, there could well be a long list of club’s lining up bids.
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Doncaster Rovers’ Tommy Rowe in action with Exeter City’s Ollie Watkins
But what makes Watkins so valuable? His versatility at such a young age is one of the player’s stand-out attributes. Able to play in a variety of positions, Watkins could come into virtually any side in the Championship and do a job, fitting into any formation’s attacking line.
His power and pace is also frightening for a player of just 21. Often seen out-muscling the bulkiest of League Two defenders, Watkins is a serious attacking threat from midfield, able to accelerate at impressive speeds.
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Ollie Watkins of Exeter City (2nd R) celebrates scoring their second goal with team mates
It is easy to see why so many teams have already been linked with Watkins. Derby County, for example, have been crying out for a goal-scoring central midfielder for this season, needing someone who can grab the game by the scruff of the neck and power the ball forward.
Known for often giving youngsters a chance, bringing to the forefront players such as Will Hughes, Jeff Hendrick and Max Lowe over the past few years, the Rams look like a perfect fit for a player like Watkins.
Derby County manager Steve McClaren
But do not rule out the pulling power of Aston Villa. Steve Bruce’s side, despite struggling plenty this season, have shown in both the summer and in January just how alluring their club is, bringing in hot properties such as Scott Hogan, Jonathan Kodjia, Henri Lansbury and Conor Hourihane.
Should Villa come calling, it is hard to see an ambitious youngster such as Watkins turning them down.
Perhaps Brentford might be come back in for Watkins early in the summer though, and try to do a deal for the League Two star before their rivals get a chance, much like Wigan Athletic did in January with a move for Grimbsy Town’s Omar Bogle.
Needing that bit of flair and attacking threat that Andre Gray offered a few seasons ago, Brentford might be smart to try and pip some of the bigger Championship clubs to this prize.
Ollie Watkins of Exeter City (L) scores their second goal
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