‘Let’s see’… David Ornstein reveals Ollie Watkins to Arsenal transfer update ahead of the summer window

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal are expected to sign a striker in the summer transfer window.

Kai Havertz is out until at least the start of next season with a hamstring injury, while Gabriel Jesus faces a longer period on the sidelines with an ACL tear.

However, it’s likely that the Gunners would’ve been in the market for a new number nine regardless of these injuries, which have only exacerbated the need.

It’s well documented that Arsenal tried to sign Ollie Watkins in January, although the likes of Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko appear to have overtaken the Englishman on Mikel Arteta’s wish list.

• READ MORE: Liverpool’s chances of signing Alexander Isak revealed as fresh twist emerges in Arsenal transfer saga

David Ornstein provides Ollie Watkins to Arsenal update

Arsenal had a £40 million offer for Watkins rejected in the winter window, with Aston Villa ultimately selling Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr instead.

The Gunners were keen on Watkins as they looked to solve their immediate short-term issue of having no fit and available strikers.

With more time to pursue long-term targets in the summer, it’s possible that the North London outfit’s pursuit of the 29-year-old has already come to an end.

However, David Ornstein refused to rule out another Arsenal move for Watkins, whilst speaking on the Athletic’s YouTube channel.

“January saw them try to sign Ollie Watkins,” the journalist said.

“It was an opportunity presented to them, potentially by Aston Villa, depending on what decision they would make on Jhon Duran.

“It didn’t work out with Arsenal, Jhon Duran departed and let’s see if that ship has sailed now. I think most probably, but you never know in this industry.”

Arsenal shouldn’t sign Ollie Watkins this summer

While Watkins has established himself as one of the most potent forwards in the English top flight in recent years, the ship should have sailed regarding his potential switch to the Emirates.

At 29, the Gunners shouldn’t splash out in excess of £50 million on a player that may only have one or two elite seasons left in him, and should instead explore a player in his prime or early prime.

Gyokeres and Isak both fit this bill, while Sesko and Hugo Ekitike are even younger alternatives who have the potential to develop into something special.

Watkins would’ve been a smart short-term stop-gap addition in January, but for an outlandish price in the summer, when Arsenal have more time to weigh up their options, they should look elsewhere.