Aston Villa Star’s Exit Boosts Arsenal’s Ollie Watkins Pursuit Amid Transfer Drama

Jhon Duran’s Goodbye Gifts Signal Imminent Exit

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has reportedly handed out farewell gifts to teammates and club staff. The 21-year-old is set to complete a €77 million (£64.5m) move to Al-Nassr, including add-ons.

Duran was left on the bench during Villa’s 4-2 Champions League win over Celtic. After the match, he was seen giving presents in the tunnel, hinting that his departure is close. TNT Sports reported this gesture as a clear sign of his impending exit.

When asked about Duran’s future, Aston Villa boss Unai Emery said: “I don’t know if Jhon Duran is leaving. But if he is, it is good news for us because he is leaving because it is good money. It is for the club, the players and the team.”

What Does This Mean for Ollie Watkins?

Duran’s potential exit could have a ripple effect on Arsenal’s pursuit of Ollie Watkins. Villa remains adamant about keeping their star striker, but Arsenal is ready to submit an improved offer after their initial £60 million bid was rejected.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has long admired Watkins for his pace, creativity, and work-rate. Speaking before Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Girona, Arteta remained tight-lipped: “I can’t talk about any of that. My confidence is that we have an amazing club with people always working to try and improve. Let’s see what happens.”

Arsenal’s Forward Line Crisis Sparks Urgency

The Gunners are desperate to strengthen their attacking options after injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Arteta has openly admitted his concerns about the lack of depth in the forward line.

“My opinion is clear – we lost two very important players in Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, so we lack goals, people and options in the front line, it’s clear,” Arteta said last week.

“If we can get the right player, that’s what we are actively looking at. We need someone that makes us better and makes an impact on the team. For the period that we have lost them ideally, we need some help because we were short already and we’re even shorter.”

With the January transfer window closing in less than a week, time is running out for Arsenal to seal a deal.

Mathys Tel Emerges as Alternative Target

While Arsenal focuses on Watkins, they are also monitoring Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel. The teenager is eager for more playing time and could be available this month. However, Chelsea is also interested, adding competition to the race.

Can Arsenal Secure Their Top Target?

Villa insists that Watkins is not for sale, but Arsenal’s persistence might force a breakthrough. The north London club needs reinforcements quickly to cope with their injury crisis.

Conclusion

This story of Jhon Duran’s imminent exit and Arsenal’s pursuit of Ollie Watkins was covered by ESPN, highlighting the drama unfolding in the January transfer window. With Duran heading to Saudi Arabia, all eyes are now on whether Arsenal can land their top target before the deadline.

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