Aston Villa have turned down a £40 million offer for striker Ollie Watkins, according to reports, as the club prepares to strengthen its squad with three new arrivals in the coming days.
The bid, which was tabled by an unnamed club, falls short of Villa's valuation of the England international, who has been a key figure since his move from Brentford in 2020. Villa are understood to be keen to keep Watkins, who scored 15 goals in the Premier League last season, and have no intention of selling him unless an exceptional offer is made.
Villa's stance on Watkins
Villa's rejection of the bid underscores their determination to hold onto their star forward, who has been linked with a move away this summer. The club's hierarchy is said to be united in their desire to build the team around Watkins, who has three years remaining on his current contract.
The news comes as Villa close in on three new signings, with the club looking to add depth and quality to their squad ahead of the new campaign. While the identities of the targets have not been officially confirmed, reports suggest that Villa are working on deals for a midfielder, a winger, and a defender.
Three new signings close
According to sources close to the club, the three deals are at an advanced stage, with Villa expecting to complete them in the near future. The signings are part of a broader strategy to improve the squad after a season that saw them finish 14th in the Premier League.
Villa's transfer activity has been busy this summer, with the club already securing the permanent signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona and the acquisition of Boubacar Kamara on a free transfer from Marseille. The new additions are expected to provide competition for places and enhance the team's overall performance.
Impact on Villa's season
The rejection of the bid for Watkins is a clear signal of Villa's ambition, as they look to push up the table and compete for European qualification. Watkins, who has been a consistent scorer for Villa, will be crucial to their hopes, and the club's decision to keep him is likely to be welcomed by fans.
With the new signings expected to be announced soon, Villa are positioning themselves for a stronger campaign. The club's management believes that the additions, combined with the retention of key players like Watkins, will give them the depth needed to challenge for a top-half finish.
As the transfer window continues, Villa will be hoping to finalise the three deals without any hitches, while also fending off any further interest in their prized assets. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the squad for the season ahead.
