Villa insist Watkins is not for sale after Arsenal’s approach, as the striker remains in Unai Emery’s plans

Aston Villa have made their stance on Ollie Watkins clear after rejecting Arsenal’s £60 million bid for the England striker. Reports emerged on Wednesday suggesting the Gunners had approached Villa in hopes of securing Watkins before the January transfer window closes. However, Unai Emery’s side are determined to keep their star forward, with Villa insisting he is not for sale.

Watkins, 29, has been a lifelong Arsenal fan, and sources suggest he is open to the move. Personal terms are reportedly not an issue, with talks already advancing between Arsenal and the player’s camp. However, Villa are frustrated by the timing of the bid, given their focus on Champions League qualification and their upcoming European clash against Celtic.

Despite speculation over his future, Emery showed his faith in Watkins by naming him in the starting XI against Celtic, with Jhon Duran left on the bench. The decision reinforces Villa’s intent to hold on to their key striker, even as reports suggest Arsenal are preparing an improved offer.

Villa’s reluctance to sell comes amid wider transfer developments, with Duran linked to a potential move to Al-Nassr. Meanwhile, Villa have shown interest in Chelsea’s Joao Felix, suggesting they are still active in the market as the transfer deadline approaches.

With just days left in the window, Arsenal’s pursuit of Watkins remains uncertain. While the Gunners are keen to bolster their attack, Villa’s firm stance indicates they are not willing to let their top scorer leave without a fight.