BREAKING NEWS LIVE: Ollie Watkins has never missed a game due to injury throughout his entire career.

Ollie Watkins has consistently defied expectations with his remarkable injury record, having never missed a match due to injury throughout his professional career. The 29-year-old, who was playing in League Two just eight years ago, has since become one of the Premier League’s most dependable forwards.

Watkins has maintained exceptional fitness levels, playing in 45, 41, 46, 37, 35, 37, and 37 league games over the years, highlighting his durability and consistency. In an era where injuries often disrupt players’ careers, his ability to stay fit stands as a testament to his conditioning and professionalism.

Aston Villa has benefited from Watkins’ reliability, but with young Colombian forward John Duran emerging, Villa is reportedly open to selling Watkins if the price is right. Reports suggest that Villa views Duran as their long-term No. 9, making Watkins potentially available for transfer this month.

Arsenal’s Interest in Watkins Grows Amid Transfer Speculation

Watkins has long been linked with a move to Arsenal, a club he has supported since childhood. His dream of playing for the Gunners was expressed while still at Brentford, and he fueled transfer speculation further when he scored against them after joining Aston Villa. “That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day,” Watkins said, a sentiment shared by his family, who were both proud and conflicted when he scored against their beloved team.

With Arsenal looking for a reliable striker, Watkins’ name has come up as a potential target. His fitness, coupled with his proven goal-scoring ability, makes him an attractive option for Mikel Arteta’s side, which has been seeking to strengthen its attacking options.

Aston Villa’s Stance on Watkins’ Future

Despite the rumors, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is reluctant to let Watkins leave. The coach values his striker’s experience and work ethic, seeing them as key to Villa’s success. Watkins’ consistent contributions in attack and his role in Villa’s push for European football mean the club is unlikely to want to weaken its squad mid-season.

However, the financial side of a possible transfer could still play a role. If Arsenal were to make a tempting offer, Villa might consider parting ways with Watkins, particularly if they view Duran as a suitable long-term replacement.

Watkins’ Potential Fit at Arsenal

Arsenal’s interest in Watkins is understandable. The Gunners have been searching for a striker who can both guarantee goals and fit into Arteta’s tactical setup. Watkins’ ability to press, hold up play, and finish chances makes him a strong candidate for the role.

With Gabriel Jesus struggling with injuries and Kai Havertz being used in different positions, Arsenal lacks a natural goal-scoring No. 9. Watkins could fill that void with his impressive fitness and Premier League experience.

His versatility is another key asset. He can play centrally or on the wings, offering Arteta tactical flexibility. His work ethic and ability to track back would also align well with Arsenal’s high-intensity pressing style.

What’s Next for Watkins?

With the January transfer window closing soon, Watkins’ future remains up in the air. While he is focused on helping Villa maintain their strong league position, a potential move to Arsenal continues to be a topic of speculation.

Arsenal, known for their last-minute transfer activity, may test Villa’s resolve with an official bid. If the Gunners see Watkins as the missing piece in their attack, negotiations could pick up pace in the coming days.

For now, Watkins remains focused on doing what he does best—playing every game and delivering consistent performances for Villa. Whether that continues after this transfer window remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: Watkins’ durability and dependability make him one of the Premier League’s most valuable strikers. Should he move to Arsenal, it would not only fulfill a childhood dream but could also add a level of consistency and work rate that would significantly boost the Gunners’ title aspirations.

As speculation persists, fans are eagerly awaiting whether Arsenal will make a move or if Watkins will remain a key figure for Villa.

Either way, his incredible injury record and form will keep him at the center of transfer talks for the foreseeable future.

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