Arsenal and Aston Villa are both intent on securing the future of striker Ollie Watkins as the race for the England international intensifies, with both clubs actively engaged in negotiations as the January transfer window approaches.

Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu, has reportedly entered discussions with Paulo Vernazza, the agent representing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, signalling intensified efforts from the North London club to acquire the England international.

Concurrently, Aston Villa are trying to secure Watkins’ future, aiming to conclude contract negotiations before the opening of the January transfer window, according to sources close to both parties.

Talks between Watkins and Aston Villa have been ongoing since the start of the year.

Initially, the club had hopes of finalising an agreement by April, but have not yet found a breakthrough.

The Midlands club remains optimistic, particularly following Watkins’ recent standout performance, where he scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 win over Chelsea.

“His commitment to the club is amazing. Watkins’ commitment every day is very high. Every day he wants to improve. He wants to work and to help the team,” said Unai Emery, Aston Villa’s head coach.

On the other side, Arsenal’s interest in Watkins has been corroborated by Edu’s direct engagement with agent Vernazza, amplifying the club’s commitment to bring the striker to Emirates Stadium.

Watkins, a self-proclaimed Arsenal supporter, has been viewed as an alternative to Brentford striker Ivan Toney.

However, reservations persist within Arsenal about Toney’s suitability, citing both his playing style and attitude as potential issues. “There are doubts within the club that Ivan Toney would fit into the Arsenal way. Arteta typically favours players with a disciplined and clean-cut image,” said a source connected to the club.

“Of course, there are examples like Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who were swiftly moved on due to attitude issues, that come to mind. Additionally, Arteta is wary of the risk associated with paying £60 million for a player midway through the season who may not be match-fit. Ultimately, it may hinge on Watkins’ contract negotiations.”

Amid these negotiations, Watkins is said to be seeking a five-year contract with a wage demand exceeding £150,000 per week. With less than two years remaining on his current Aston Villa contract, the stakes are high for both clubs as the January transfer window looms.

Further adding complexity to the scenario is Vernazza’s personal history with Arsenal. The agent, who started his football career in Arsenal‘s academy and later played for the club from 1997 to 2000, shares a deep affinity for the Gunners, as does his client Watkins.

Watkins has seven goals and two assists in 11 games this season, averaging 67 minutes per game.

He scored a hattrick, with an assist, against Brighton on Saturday.