Mikel Arteta has trump card that could help Arsenal seal Ollie Watkins transfer

Arsenal could take advantage of Ollie Watkins being a Gunners fan after being urged to sign the Aston Villa star.

The former Brentford and Exeter striker has been in stunning form for the Midlands side this season. He has scored 26 goals in all competitions this term - a record that includes a strike in Villa’s recent 2-0 success at the Emirates Stadium.

After that game, Watkins admitted that he was a Gunners fan growing up. Speaking with Sky Sports, he said: “I used to. I grew up supporting Arsenal but it’s a different story now playing against them. Not too much to say really.”

It is not the first time that Watkins has come clean on his prior allegiance. Speaking back in 2020 during his time with Brentford, he admitted he wanted to one day play at the Emirates as an Arsenal player.

“That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a long shot,” Watkins said. “I’m an Arsenal fan so Thierry Henry was my [idol] he’s unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up really.”

Arsenal have already been linked with a move for Watkins ahead of the summer window. Former Gunners star Theo Walcott is among those who would like to see the North Londoners move for his services.

He said: “I feel he is the sort of player that Arsenal would look at. What I really like about Ollie Watkins is that, you look at his style and you think he is a winger. He reminds me, and it’s one of the best compliments I am going to give him, but he reminds me of Thierry Henry.

“Against Arsenal he played out on the left a lot. He wanted to be a forward, but drifted out on the left – he’s such a threat on the counter. He is playing at the top of his game and it would be refreshing to see if he stays at the club.

“There were warning signs [for