ARSENAL have had a shock £60million bid for Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins rejected, according to reports.
The Gunners are keen to pull off an incredible swoop for the England striker before the February 3 transfer deadline.
Boss Mikel Arteta is said to be a big admirer of Watkins.
And according to the Mail, Arsenal chiefs believe that the 29-year-old could spark life into their title bid.
A deal will not be easy to complete, with three-and-a-half years remaining on Watkins' Villa contract.
Unai Emery's side have turned down Arsenal's initial bid, and are unhappy with its timing.
The forward remains a key man for Villa and is set to be in Champions League action against Celtic tonight.
He recently scored a pivotal goal at the Emirates as Villa came back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Arsenal.
In total he has netted 10 goals in 23 Premier League appearances this season.
Watkins joined Villa from Brentford in 2020 for a then-club record £28million.
During his stint with the Bees, the forward made his stance on a potential move to Arsenal clear.
He said: "Yeah, that’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a long shot."
Unlike previous campaigns, Watkins has shared the work load as Villa's No9 this term.
Jhon Duran has also enjoyed a productive season for Emery's side, but continues to be linked with a move away.
Saudi side Al-Nassr are the latest team to attempt to sign Duran, as they look to pair him with Cristiano Ronaldo.