Athletic reporter Phil Hay has told his podcast that it is unlikely Leeds revisit a move for Ollie Watkins amid reports that the Yorkshire club could sign the Aston Villa striker – despite being in talks to sign him back in the summer of 2020.
Watkins, 26, was a substitute for Villa’s first game against Bournemouth. He started on Saturday against Everton, laying on two assists in a 2-1 win over the Toffees. But with his game time in question, Watkins may consider a move.
Indeed, as an England international, he will feel he needs regular game time to show Gareth Southgate he can earn a place in the World Cup. It is a consideration that has convinced Conor Coady to swap Wolves for Everton this summer.
Reports claim that Leeds are showing interest in Watkins this summer, as they look to sign a striker. Hay was asked about a potential move for the ex-Brentford striker, who joined Villa in 2020 from the Bees for £28million.
Hay recalled previous interest from Leeds in Watkins two years ago, stating that Leeds held talks with Brentford. But he says had Leeds not agreed a deal with Valencia for Rodrigo, then the Whites might have signed the England man.
“He does seem to be out of favour [at Aston Villa]. They looked closely at Watkins when they signed Rodrigo from Valencia. Had Valencia not agreed to sell Rodrigo, Watkins is certainly the player they would have gone for next.
“There was plenty of contact there, and discussion. But I don’t see them going back in for one, Villa would want to recoup some cash for him,” Hay said, when asked about there being any potential chance Leeds sign him.
Hay: Unlikely Leeds revisit move for Watkins
Watkins would be a sensational signing for Leeds. The Whites do need attacking reinforcements, especially after Patrick Bamford suffered an injury against Southampton – and youngster Joe Gelhardt was not among the substitutes.
The Villa ace might be tempted by a move too, if he was given the necessary game time to get into England’s World Cup squad. But ultimately, Leeds need to be wary of blocking Gelhardt’s eventual path into the starting line-up.
Watkins can play out wide but he would prefer to play as a striker. Signing the England international would hamper the progress and development of Gelhardt. Villa would hardly want to strengthen a rival. Hay is right, it looks unlikely.
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