Theo Walcott has encouraged Arsenal to sign Ollie Watkins this summer, with Mikel Arteta in the market for a new striker. The 28-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the 'big six' recently as he continues to impress for Aston Villa.
Watkins, who sees his contract at Villa Park expire in 2028, has featured 45 times for Unai Emery's side this term, scoring 26 goals and providing ten assists. His impressive performances have not only attracted the interest of some top clubs, but also the attention of Gareth Southgate.
The Englishman was named in the latest Three Lions squad over the March international break, starting against Brazil in Harry Kane's absence. With the European championships just around the corner, Watkins will be eager to end the season well and secure himself a ticket to Germany.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, Walcott heaped tremendous praise on the £42.7million-rated talisman. The former Arsenal ace compared Watkins to Thierry Henry and explained why he'd be the perfect signing for Mikel Arteta this summer.
Discussing Arsenal's plans, Walcott said: «You look at their goals tally right now. They will invest in that player and that player could well have been playing on the opposite side.»
Then, when asked if he was referencing Watkins, he added: «I am indeed. I feel he is the sort of player that Arsenal would look to. What I really like about Ollie Watkins is that, you look at his style and you think he is a winger.
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»He reminds me, and it’s one of the best compliments I am going to give him, but like a Thierry Henry.
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