“I Need Assurance…”: Ollie Watkins Reveals He’s Ready to Join Arsenal ‘ON ONE CONDITION’ After Scoring in Champions League Match Yesterday

The transfer window is heating up, and Arsenal is making headlines once again. The Gunners have set their sights on Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins, submitting a £60 million bid for the England international. However, Villa swiftly rejected the offer, signaling their reluctance to part ways with one of their most valuable assets.

Despite this setback, Arsenal remains determined to bring Watkins to North London before the transfer deadline. Reports suggest that an improved offer is in the works, with the Gunners hoping to secure a deal before Monday’s 11 PM cutoff.

A Striker in High Demand

Watkins has solidified his reputation as one of the Premier League’s top forwards. His ability to find the net consistently and create opportunities for teammates has made him a highly sought-after player. Arsenal’s interest in him stems from their need for a clinical striker to bolster their attack, especially as they push for Premier League and European success.

On Wednesday, Watkins showcased his quality once again, scoring for Aston Villa in their Champions League clash against Celtic. However, his performance wasn’t without its challenges—he also missed a penalty after slipping while striking the ball.

Arsenal to Submit a Second Bid

With their initial bid rejected, Arsenal is preparing to return with an improved offer. The Daily Mail reports that discussions between the two clubs are advancing, with Villa holding firm on their valuation of the player.

Insiders believe that Unai Emery, Villa’s head coach and former Arsenal boss, is reluctant to let Watkins go. However, those close to the player suggest that a move to the Emirates could be the perfect next step in his career.

Watkins’ Career Journey

The 29-year-old striker’s rise to prominence has been remarkable. Born in Torquay, Watkins began his professional career at Exeter City before moving to Brentford in 2017. His performances in the Championship earned him a £28 million transfer to Aston Villa in 2020—a then club-record fee.

Since joining Villa, Watkins has been a standout performer. In 201 appearances, he has scored 81 goals and provided 35 assists. In the Premier League, he boasts 69 goals and 31 assists in 169 matches—an impressive return for any forward.

Watkins Sets His Condition for Arsenal Move

While Arsenal fans are eager for the deal to be finalized, Watkins has reportedly set one key condition before agreeing to the transfer. According to sources, the striker is seeking assurance regarding his role in Mikel Arteta’s squad. He wants to be a guaranteed starter and not merely a rotational option.

“Because Unai Emery is in love with the player. And also those close to the player believe that Unai Emery could finally be the right coach to trust him, to play him consistently and show the excellent quality of Joao Felix. But, again, it’s not guaranteed,” a source close to the negotiations revealed.

How Watkins Would Fit at Arsenal

If Arsenal secures the deal, Watkins will bring a new dimension to their attack. His pace, strength, and ability to link up play would complement Arsenal’s dynamic frontline, which already features Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli.

His ability to press high and work tirelessly off the ball aligns with Arteta’s philosophy. Given Arsenal’s struggles with converting chances in crucial matches, Watkins’ finishing ability could be the missing piece in their title-challenging puzzle.

What’s Next?

With the transfer deadline looming, Arsenal is expected to accelerate negotiations. Villa’s asking price remains a sticking point, but the Gunners appear willing to increase their bid to meet the club’s demands.

If Arsenal manages to secure Watkins, it would send a strong message to their Premier League rivals. The move would also serve as a painful reminder to Aston Villa fans of how quickly top talent can be poached by bigger clubs.

For now, all eyes are on the negotiations. Will Arsenal’s second bid be enough to convince Villa? Will Watkins get the assurances he desires? The coming days will determine whether this blockbuster transfer goes through.