Arsenal told perfect Kylian Mbappe alternative as Mikel Arteta plots Gabriel Jesus backup plan

With Gabriel Jesus nursing a hamstring issue, Mikel Arteta has been encouraged to sign Ollie Watkins. The 27-year-old striker has been heavily linked with an exit from Aston Villa following an impressive start to the season.

Watkins, who has recently signed a new contract which keeps him at Villa Park until 2028, has featured nine times for Unai Emery's side in the Premier League this term, scoring five goals and providing five assists. The England international's eye-catching performances have reportedly courted the interest of some top clubs across Europe, and Arsenal have been urged to strike while the iron is hot.

Speaking to DAZN Bet, Michael Owen claimed that Watkins could soon become 'one of the very best strikers in the Premier League'. The former Liverpool, Newcastle and Manchester United striker said: «I think Ollie Watkins could be one of the very best strikers in the Premier League.

»The way he is going at the moment, he could play for any team. Aston Villa are a good fit though because I think they are going places. A year ago I said if there are two players in the Premier League who have more ability than they are showing, it's Ollie Watkins and Darwin Nunez.

«I thought both of them are such rough diamonds that with a bit of coaching and help they could be top class, and it's nice now to see Watkins actually fulfilling some of that potential.»

While Owen issued a gushing assessment of Watkins, steering him in the direction of the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal, he conceded that the Villa striker isn't good enough for Real Madrid yet. The 43-year-old added: «I don't think Watkins is ready for Real Madrid just yet.

Arsenal news and transfers LIVE – Sandro Tonali ban, Gabriel Jesus injury, Thomas Partey