Ollie Watkins Wants To Stay At Aston Villa Despite Arsenal Interest, Says Emery

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed that striker Ollie Watkins is committed to staying at the club, despite reports linking him with a move to Arsenal.

Arsenal reportedly made a 60 million 74 million bid for Watkins earlier this week, but Villa turned down the offer, with rumours suggesting the Gunners could return with a second bid before Mondays transfer deadline. Arsenal is in the market for a new forward after injuries sidelined Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka for the long term.

However, Emery revealed that Watkins, who has scored 11 goals in 32 games this season, told him he remains focused on Villa's goals.

The 29-year-old striker celebrated his goal in Wednesdays Champions League victory over Celtic by tapping the Villa badge on his shirt, which Emery said was a clear sign of his commitment.

He is happy to stay, said Emery. We asked him how he is feeling every day, and he is very focused on the message we have.