Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed that striker Ollie Watkins is committed to staying at the club, despite reports linking him with a move to Arsenal.
Arsenal reportedly made a £60 million ($74 million) bid for Watkins earlier this week, but Villa turned down the offer, with rumours suggesting the Gunners could return with a second bid before Monday’s transfer deadline. Arsenal is in the market for a new forward after injuries sidelined Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka for the long term.
However, Emery revealed that Watkins, who has scored 11 goals in 32 games this season, told him he remains focused on Villa’s goals.
The 29-year-old striker celebrated his goal in Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Celtic by tapping the Villa badge on his shirt, which Emery said was a clear sign of his commitment.
“He is happy to stay,” said Emery. “We asked him how he is feeling every day, and he is very focused on the message we have.”
The Villa boss explained that Watkins deeply values how the club has supported him since his arrival from Brentford in 2020, and in return, he wants to repay that faith by staying with Villa, who are vying for a top-four Premier League finish and a spot in the Champions League last 16.
Despite the allure of Arsenal’s title challenge, Emery said Watkins sees Villa as integral to his career development and appreciates the club’s commitment to him.
The striker’s dedication to Villa contrasts with other players who may be tempted by offers to leave. “Some players accept to stay here, commit with us here, and be with our challenge,” said Emery.
As Villa looks to bolster their attacking options after Jhon Duran’s move to Al Nassr, they have been linked with Chelsea’s Joao Felix. Villa president Monchi revealed that Emery has long been a fan of the Portuguese forward.
