AliousPremier League Giants Circle as Aston Villa Prepare for Ollie Watkins Exit
Aston Villa are bracing for a wave of high-profile transfer interest in star striker Ollie Watkins, with top Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal closely monitoring his situation, according to former Villa and Man United scout Mick Brown.
Sources have confirmed to *Football Insider* that Villa could be open to selling the England international if an offer in the range of £50–60 million is received. Despite Watkins remaining a key figure in Unai Emery’s plans, recent developments—particularly Marcus Rashford’s loan arrival—have created uncertainty around his long-term role.
Watkins, 29, has continued to impress this season with 15 goals and seven assists in 33 Premier League appearances. His relentless work rate, versatility in stretching defences, and ability to drift wide make him a unique attacking asset, says Brown, who played a pivotal role in bringing Watkins to Villa Park.
“There were always small doubts about his touch and consistency in front of goal, but he’s improved tremendously,” Brown noted. “Now you have top teams like Man United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal keeping close tabs on him.”
Arsenal reportedly had a January bid rejected but have not cooled their interest. Chelsea and United are also keen to reinforce their forward lines, while Liverpool have entered the race as they look for an elite attacking option. Watkins is considered a serious alternative to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s reported primary target.
If Villa decide to finalize a permanent deal for Rashford and offer him a long-term role, Watkins may find himself sidelined for key matches—something the striker is unlikely to tolerate.
Should any of the Premier League’s elite submit a concrete bid this summer, Villa are expected to evaluate the offer seriously. If a deal materializes, it could pave the way for Rashford’s full-time arrival and force the club into seeking an additional forward to maintain their attacking depth.
Alious
