Ollie Watkins makes Arsenal transfer stance clear amid Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko latest

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Ollie Watkins' affection for Arsenal is no secret amid reports the Gunners are set to reignite their interest in the England forward after a unsuccessful bid in January.

Despite not securing Watkins, 29, earlier this year, Arsenal are poised to bolster their attack with a new No. 9 in the upcoming summer window, with Watkins unexpectedly back on their radar. Late in the January transfer window, Arsenal made enquiries about Watkins but Villa's £60million valuation put the north Londoners off.

Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko have been heavily tracked since and it had seemed one of the two would make the move to Emirates Stadium. However, according to Record, Watkins has re-emerged as a potential target, with Arsenal's pursuit of Gyokeres from Sporting CP hitting a snag.

The report indicates that Arsenal have had two offers for Gyokeres turned down, including one worth £60million, as Sporting hold out for a higher fee for their prized forward, reports the Mirror. With patience wearing thin over the Gyokeres deal, Arsenal are reportedly considering moves for either Sesko or Watkins, who might come at a more reasonable price.

Watkins, a lifelong Arsenal supporter, has previously expressed his desire to play for the club, calling it "the dream" during the London Football Awards in March 2020. "I'm an Arsenal fan and Thierry Henry was unbelievable to watch, he was my idol growing up," the versatile forward said.

He added: "That's the dream to play for Arsenal. It's a long shot. It's only because my family support them and stuff like that but that is the long term dream."

Aston Villa instead sanctioned a £70million deal with Al-Nassr for Jhon Duran in January, sending him off to join the Saudi Pro League. The Colombian striker might find his way back to the Premier League soon, as whispers suggest a loan return is on the cards.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, available for £5million, looks set to join Arsenal in the coming weeks, while Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi just needs to complete a medical. Elsewhere, a defender and possibly a winger could also be targeted by the Gunners this summer.

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