Ollie Watkins makes decision on Arsenal move after Gunners make shock bid for Aston Villa star

Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins is reportedly open to the idea of joining Arsenal this January after the Gunners make shock bid for the striker.

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Article continues below

Article continues below

• Arsenal see first bid for Ollie Watkins rejected
• Aston Villa unwilling to let Watkins leave this month
• Watkins wants move to the team he supported as a child

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Arsenal's hunt for a number nine continues this month with the transfer deadline fast approaching in just over 72 hours. The Gunners reportedly made their opening bid for Aston Villa's Watkins earlier this week, which was promptly rejected by the Villains as they are keen on keeping the England international at the club with Jhon Duran's big-money move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr set to be sealed soon.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Aston Villa are said to be in no mood to let Watkins leave the club in the middle of the season and this late in the window. However, The Daily Mail has now reported that the 29-year-old striker is reportedly open to joining Arsenal this month as he supported the North London side growing up and wants to represent the side before the opportunity slips away.

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  Arsenal are now considering making a second bid for Watkins this month in a last-minute attempt to sign the striker. Nonetheless, Mikel Arteta's side are said to be aware that the bid will likely be turned down by Aston Villa especially if Duran's move to Al-Nassr goes through.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

  The Gunners are fully aware of the low probability of Aston Villa accepting their bid for Watkins this month and have therefore also kept tabs on Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel's situation and could look to sign the 19-year-old on loan this winter.