Martin Keown makes ‘interesting’ Ollie Watkins transfer claim as Arsenal chase Aston Villa striker

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Arsenal’s preparation for their Champions League clash has been overshadowed by some interesting transfer news emerging involving the club.

Arsenal have made an initial £60 million bid for Ollie Watkins as they attempt to bolster their attacking ranks with the transfer deadline looming.

Arsenal fans have been left torn over the proposed bid for Watkins as despite his proven Premier League record, the £60m rejected bid is deemed as a little expensive for a 29-year-old.

Watkins is keen to move to Arsenal having supported the club as a boy and an Arsenal legend has also thrown his approval behind the transfer.

READ MORE: Arsenal ace Mikel Arteta let leave for free finally finds new club and faces Neymar in possible debut

Martin Keown wants Ollie Watkins at Arsenal

Speaking on TNT Sports pre-match coverage of the Champions League clash between Girona and Arsenal, Martin Keown was asked about the potential transfer of Watkins and expressed his desire for Arsenal to close the deal.

Keown stated: “It’s an interesting one because he’s a decent player. I think I would [want him at Arsenal].”

The former Arsenal and Aston Villa defender then explained how he thought it would be a difficult deal for Arsenal to do this late in the window.

Keown explained: “I don’t think Aston Villa will actually accept a deal. They’ve got two very good strikers there so eventually one will have to move on, maybe they keep them. Arsenal certainly are pushing and the transfer window is getting ever later so they need to move.”

Watkins deal may depend on future of Jhon Duran

A deal for Watkins is going to be a complex one for Arsenal to complete and it may become impossible if Aston Villa decide to sell fellow striker Jhon Duran.

Arsenal enquired about Duran in recent weeks and journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Villa are close to an agreement with Saudi club Al Nassr

Arsenal have also shown an interest in Mathys Tel of Bayern Munich as Arteta seems to finally be getting his wish of attacking reinforcements.

One thing is for sure, the final few days of the January transfer window are going to interesting ones for all of those associated with the club.