Arsenal Plan Second Watkins Bid As Aston Villa Star Hands Out ‘Goodbye Gifts’

Arsenal Plan Second Watkins Bid As Aston Villa Star Hands Out ‘Goodbye Gifts’

Arsenal are reportedly plotting a second bid to lure Aston Villa forward, Ollie Watkins to the Emirates after seeing their £60 million bid rejected.

Villa are still committed to holding onto Watkins this month. However, according to The Mirror, Arsenal, who have long admired the England international due to manager Mikel Arteta’s admiration for his work ethic, speed, and inventiveness, are prepared to make a better offer after their initial £60 million deal was turned down.

The Villans are unlikely to let the 27-year-old leave after accepting €77 million (£64.5m) bid plus add-ons from Saudi Pro League side, Al Nassr for Jhon Duran.

As Duran prepares to depart to Saudi Arabia, the 21-year-old has offered farewell presents to teammates and club employees.

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According to TNT Sports, the attacker was spotted giving out gifts to teammates and staff in the tunnel following the game, indicating that his departure is imminent.

When quizzed on Duran and Watkins’ futures, Villa boss Unai Emery said: “I don’t know if Jhon Duran is leaving.

“But if he is, it is good news for us because he is leaving because it is good money. It is for the club, the players and the team. I don’t know if he will leave or not. Watkins is our striker.”