Arsenal and Man Utd set to battle for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins in summer window

Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring Ollie Watkins’ situation at Aston Villa as the England striker emerges as a major potential mover in the current summer transfer window.

The 30-year-old has attracted strong interest from both Premier League clubs, as well as from other teams in England and across Europe, with his future at Villa Park seen as one of the key talking points of this window.

According to The Sun, Aston Villa have already rejected a significant approach from Fenerbahce, blocking a proposed £30m (€35m) bid from the Turkish side for the forward. Villa are reported to have made it clear they were not prepared to sell, leading to negotiations being halted at an early stage.

Fenerbahce had been optimistic about landing Watkins and were ready to put forward a three-year deal, with an annual salary thought to be between £7.5m and £8.5m, in an effort to tempt the England international to the Turkish Super Lig.

Arsenal eye Watkins amid Jesus doubts

Arsenal are said to hold serious interest in Watkins as they consider reshaping their attacking options, with ongoing speculation around the future of Gabriel Jesus.

Reports suggesting the Brazil forward could leave Emirates Stadium have prompted manager Mikel Arteta to look for alternative options up front, and Watkins has moved towards the top of Arsenal’s list of potential signings.

The North London club have been linked with a number of attackers this summer, but Watkins’ proven record in the Premier League and his status as an established England international make him an appealing target if Villa show any willingness to sell.

Manchester United could move if Zirkzee departs

Manchester United are also tracking developments, though from a slightly different angle. Their level of interest in Watkins is understood to be closely tied to the future of Joshua Zirkzee.

United are braced for the possibility that Zirkzee could move to Serie A, with Juventus and Roma both mentioned as potential destinations for the Dutch striker. Should Zirkzee complete a transfer to either Italian club, Manchester United are expected to step up their pursuit of Watkins and consider submitting a formal offer.

The Old Trafford club are exploring ways to strengthen their forward line and see Watkins as a viable option if their current plans for Zirkzee fall through or if the Dutchman moves on.

Villa’s finances may shape outcome

Aston Villa’s financial position could yet prove decisive in determining whether Watkins remains at the club beyond this summer.

While Villa have so far resisted attempts to prise the striker away, the report suggests the club may be prepared to listen to offers in the region of £40m. The financial muscle of Premier League rivals such as Arsenal and Manchester United is seen as a key factor that could ultimately test Villa’s resolve to keep one of their star players.

For now, Villa’s stance has halted Fenerbahce’s interest, but with the window ongoing and two of England’s biggest clubs weighing up their options, Watkins’ future is likely to remain under close scrutiny in the weeks ahead.