Arsenal Fails to Sign Ollie Watkins on Deadline Day

Arsenal identified Watkins as a key target last week, recognizing the need for a new center-forward to bolster their Premier League title push. However, their £40 million bid was quickly turned down by Aston Villa, who valued the striker at £60 million. According to sources, Arsenal deemed the £60 million price tag excessive for a player who, at 29 years old, would only serve as a short- to medium-term solution. The financials simply didn’t align with Mikel Arteta’s plans for the North London club.

Arteta Expresses Disappointment Over Transfer Window Outcome

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted his disappointment over the club’s inability to secure any new signings during the winter transfer window. However, he praised the club for maintaining financial discipline and sticking to their long-term strategy.

The Gunners had been expected to bring in an attacker following Gabriel Jesus’ season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury last month, compounded by Bukayo Saka’s ongoing hamstring issue. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal opted not to overspend or compromise their transfer policy.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle, Arteta explained, "Our intention was clear—to explore opportunities to improve the squad with players who could make an immediate impact. Injuries have affected us, and we weren’t able to achieve our goals. While we’re disappointed, we remain committed to bringing in only the right players who fit our profile and can elevate the team. Financial discipline is crucial, and we must stay on the path that has brought us this far."

Arteta emphasized the importance of maintaining the club’s strategic approach, even in the face of challenges. "It’s about finding the right player who can make us better, while also ensuring we stay within our financial framework. We’ve worked hard to build a strong foundation, and we won’t deviate from that."

Ultimately, Arsenal’s pursuit of Ollie Watkins highlighted their ambition to strengthen the squad, but the club’s refusal to overpay demonstrated their commitment to long-term sustainability and strategic planning.