Villa have already raked in a hefty £64 million transfer fee when they sanctioned Jhon Duran's sale to Al Nassr, so a cash influx at this stage is insufficient to justify a sale for Watkins. Romano also noted exclusively to GIVEMESPORT that Unai Emery was "pushing internally" to avoid parting ways with his man this window.

Mikel Arteta has remained clear in his belief that Arsenal can achieve something special this season, but actions speak louder than words. And, if Arsenal’s approach for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins tells us anything, it is that Arteta really does believe there is still plenty to play for.