Arsenal’s pursuit of a top-class striker will incur a massive financial commitment if their sights are set on Aston Villa‘s Ollie Watkins.

While Mikel Arteta prioritizes bolstering his strikeforce, the Gunners must prepare for a price tag likely exceeding €100 million.

Arsenal‘s interest in Watkins isn’t surprising. He’s a constant goal-scoring threat in the Premier League, demonstrating speed, technical ability, and clinical finishing. His reputation as a dangerous striker has attracted attention from multiple top Premier League clubs.

Watkins’ track record highlights his value. The 28-year-old has consistently shown an ability to find the net and create chances for his team, making him a key contributor at Aston Villa. His current season’s tally of 18 goals and 12 assists in 35 appearances only increases his desirability across the league.

While signing Watkins would significantly boost Arsenal‘s attack, convincing Aston Villa to sell won’t be easy. Any serious offer for Watkins will need to reflect his market value, leading to bids potentially exceeding a massive €100 million.

Villa also holds a strong negotiating position due to Watkins’ long-term contract, signed in October and extending until 2028.

Watkins moved to Villa in 2020 from Brentford for €34m but it was Unai Emery’s arrival that sparked him into life. Prior to working under the former Arsenal man, Watkins had managed 43 goals and 13 assists in 116 games, an average goal/assist rate of one every 2 games.

This season, that rate is 1.16.