Arsenal’s Transfer Ambitions: Watkins Pursuit, Mathys Tel Loan, and Potential Departures
With the January transfer window nearing its deadline, Mikel Arteta is actively working to strengthen Arsenal’s squad, with four possible signings still on the table.
Watkins Interest and Transfer Hurdles
Arsenal’s interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has grown, but securing a deal remains challenging. Reports suggest the Gunners submitted a £45 million bid, which Villa rejected.
Watkins showcased his quality in Villa’s 4-2 Champions League win over Celtic, reinforcing his importance to Unai Emery’s side. While both Emery and Arteta have commented on the speculation, neither has given a clear indication of Watkins’ availability.
The situation is further complicated by Jhon Duran’s potential £64 million move to Al-Nassr. Villa is unlikely to sanction both departures in the same window unless a replacement is secured. Joao Felix has been linked with a move to Villa Park, which could influence Watkins’ future.
If Duran’s transfer stalls, Arsenal could still return with an improved offer. However, Villa’s reluctance to part with Watkins midseason remains a significant obstacle.
Mathys Tel Loan Move on the Cards?
Another name on Arsenal’s radar is Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel. The 19-year-old forward is attracting interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, with the latter reportedly willing to pay £50.2 million for a permanent deal.
Tel, who has spent much of the season on the sidelines, is keen for more regular playing time. Arsenal’s ongoing injury concerns with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus make Tel a viable short-term solution. A loan move could be an ideal scenario for all parties involved.
Squad Rotation and Departures
The return of Ethan Nwaneri provides additional depth, but Arteta is likely to manage his minutes carefully. Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz may also benefit from squad rotation, with Havertz potentially shifting back to midfield.
Raheem Sterling’s struggles at Arsenal have sparked speculation over his loan spell from Chelsea. If a loan deal for Tel is finalized, Arsenal may reconsider Sterling’s position in the squad.
Meanwhile, young forward Nathan Butler-Oyedeji could secure a third loan move to the EFL. With a permanent transfer likely in the summer, allowing him to gain more experience in the next six months seems a logical step.
Final Days of the Transfer Window
As the deadline approaches, Arsenal remains determined to strengthen the squad. Watkins and Tel remain priority targets, but the complexities of negotiations could see the Gunners pivot to alternative options if deals stall.
Fans will be eagerly watching as Arteta and the club’s hierarchy navigate these final days in the transfer market.
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