Mikel Arteta is a known admirer of Watkins and has turned to the England international as he looks for attacking reinforcements before the transfer deadline. Arsenal are expected to make a second, improved offer for Watkins but Aston Villa boss Emery has no intention of losing him.

The Gunners are ready to increase their bid for Watkins after seeing an opening offer rejected by an angry Aston Villa - but he's not the only forward on their radar in the final days of the transfer

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has seemingly made the club's stance on selling Ollie Watkins very clear after a rejected bid from Arsenal.