Mikel Arteta’s bold transfer decision could now be about to come back to haunt Arsenal

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Arsenal are facing yet another test in the Premier League title race when they travel away to face Aston Villa and former transfer target Ollie Watkins.

Earlier this year, Arsenal considered signing Watkins; however, they eventually opted against firming up their interest in the 29-year-old.

The striker will once again be looking to spoil Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, just like he did during the 2023/24 season at the Emirates Stadium.

He now heads into the clash with Mikel Arteta’s team off the back of an impressive brace away at Brighton, meaning he will be full of confidence.

Ollie Watkins will be looking to make Mikel Arteta regret his transfer decision

Heading into Sunday’s clash at Villa Park, Ollie Watkins will be looking to prove that Arsenal were wrong not to pay the money to sign him.

Back in January, Arsenal made a shock move for the Villa forward, as Arteta looked to finally add the number nine to his squad, which has been needed for so long.

Arsenal made a £40 million bid for Watkins, which was rejected, and the Gunners eventually decided against upping their offer.

Before bringing Viktor Gyokeres in from Sporting CP, Andrea Berta and his team had another look at the 29-year-old, but it was clear that better options were now available.

It’s been a mixed campaign for the England international, who has just three goals in the Premier League, but two of which came during this midweek.

Watkins helped fire Unai Emery’s team to victory against a strong Brighton team, which has seen them climb into third place in the table.

He will now be desperate to add to his tally against the Gunners and put a run together ahead of next summer’s World Cup.

Ollie Watkins ended Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes in 2023/24

Arsenal fans will still be reeling from when Watkins netted the decisive goal that brought an end to their Premier League title hopes in 2023/24.

Emery’s side came to the Emirates Stadium chasing Champions League football, and two goals from Watkins and Leon Bailey in the second half secured the win.

Watkins has a solid record against the Gunners, scoring six times in 11 matches against them, making them his second favourite Premier League opponent.