Ollie Watkins has backed his Aston Villa teammate Morgan Rogers to achieve greatness, declaring the young forward can 'go to the very top' as transfer speculation swirls around the club. The England striker's comments come amid increasing reports that Arsenal are preparing a move for Rogers, with the Gunners reportedly making him a priority target this summer.
Watkins Praises Rogers' Potential
Speaking about Rogers, Watkins highlighted the 22-year-old's talent and work ethic. 'He's got everything you need to succeed at the highest level,' Watkins said. 'I've seen him in training every day, and I truly believe he can go to the very top.' The endorsement from Watkins, who scored a dramatic last-minute winner against the Netherlands at Euro 2024, carries weight as Rogers continues to develop at Villa Park.
Rogers joined Aston Villa from Middlesbrough in January 2024 and has since made 18 appearances, scoring two goals and providing three assists. His performances have attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, with Arsenal now leading the chase.
Arsenal Interest Intensifies
According to sources close to the club, Arsenal are increasingly likely to make a formal offer for Rogers in the coming weeks. The Gunners see him as a versatile attacking option who can play across the front line. On the Claret & Blue podcast, Villa correspondent Dan Rolinson and John Townley discussed the possibility of Rogers leaving, noting that the club may face a difficult decision if a substantial bid arrives.
Villa are in a strong negotiating position, with Rogers under contract until 2028. However, the player's desire for regular first-team football could influence the outcome, especially with Villa's attacking depth including Watkins, Leon Bailey, and Moussa Diaby.
Lucas Bergvall Update
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall wants to leave this summer, with Aston Villa among the clubs monitoring his situation. The 19-year-old Sweden international has struggled for game time at Spurs, making just 12 appearances in all competitions last season before a lengthy injury layoff. Villa expressed interest in Bergvall back in January due to his lack of minutes, and that interest has now resurfaced.
Bergvall, who joined Spurs from Djurgårdens IF in 2023, is valued at around £15 million by the north London club. Villa manager Unai Emery is believed to be keen on adding a creative midfielder to his squad, and Bergvall fits the profile of a young, technically gifted player who can operate in central or attacking midfield.
Villa's Pre-Season Plans
Aston Villa have also confirmed two new pre-season friendlies this summer, along with the rescheduling of another fixture. The club will face German side RB Leipzig and Portuguese outfit Braga as part of their preparations for the 2026/27 Premier League season. These matches will provide valuable minutes for the squad as Emery looks to build on last season's top-six finish.
Villa fans can also look forward to upgraded matchday experiences, with official premium packages now available for the 26/27 season through Seat Unique. These include hospitality options at Villa Park, allowing supporters to turn regular fixtures into memorable events.
Watkins' World Cup Ambitions
For Watkins, the upcoming World Cup represents another opportunity to shine on the international stage. The 30-year-old striker wrote himself into English football folklore two years ago when he came off the bench to score a last-minute winner against the Netherlands, sending England through to the Euro 2024 final. He now knows his World Cup moment could be just around the corner, with the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico set to begin next year.
Watkins scored 22 goals in all competitions last season for Villa, cementing his place as one of the Premier League's most consistent forwards. His form has also kept him in Gareth Southgate's England plans, and he will be hoping to lead the line at the World Cup.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Villa face key decisions on Rogers and potential new arrivals like Bergvall. With Watkins' backing, Rogers' future remains a talking point, while Bergvall's desire to leave Spurs could see him become the latest addition to Emery's squad.
