Transfers

Arsenal pursue Ollie Watkins as Villa reject £60m bid

Arsenal has set its sights on signing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins before next week’s transfer deadline, according to the Daily Mail.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, a long-time admirer of the 29-year-old, has overseen an initial £60 million bid, which Villa has rejected. However, Arsenal is expected to return with an improved offer.

Watkins, a key player for Unai Emery’s squad, remains under contract for another three years. Despite Villa’s strong bargaining position, a move to Arsenal may tempt the England international, who once revealed his childhood dream of playing for the North London club.

“That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it’s a long shot,” Watkins said in 2020 while at Brentford.

Watkins has scored 10 goals in 31 appearances this season, including a recent strike in Villa’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Transfers

Victor Boniface to remain at Bayer Leverkusen as Al Nassr deal falls through – Club director

Bayer Leverkusen Managing Director Simon Rolfes has confirmed that Nigerian forward Victor Boniface will not be moving to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.

The deal, which had been in advanced stages with both clubs agreeing on a fee, fell apart after Al Nassr decided to sign Aston Villa’s striker Jhon Duran instead. Boniface had reportedly agreed on personal terms with Al Nassr but will now continue with the Bundesliga side.

“There have been talks, but we are happy that he will be training with us today. I assume that he will stay,” Rolfes stated. “He feels comfortable here, his attitude towards the club is unchanged.”

Boniface’s continued presence at Leverkusen will be a boost to Xabi Alonso’s side as they pursue success domestically and in European competitions.

Transfers

Everton eyes late move for Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi

As the January transfer window approaches its deadline, Everton has reportedly set their sights on Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi.

The Nigerian forward, 27, has struggled for consistent game time this season, falling behind New Zealand international Chris Wood in the pecking order.

Despite expressing a desire to stay at Forest, ongoing speculation about his future continues, with West Ham United previously linked to the former Union Berlin star.

Everton is now reportedly considering a late swoop for Awoniyi as they aim to bolster their attacking options. The Toffees hope to secure his signature before the window closes.

Awoniyi has netted just one goal in 20 league appearances this season, a decline from his strong performances in previous campaigns. His potential move could offer a fresh start and an opportunity to rediscover his goal-scoring form.

Transfers

Victor Boniface’s Al Nassr move collapses as Club opts for Jhon Durán

Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface will remain with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen after his proposed transfer to Al Nassr fell through.

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on Wednesday night via his X account, stating that Al Nassr ultimately chose not to finalize the deal.

“Victor Boniface and Al Nassr, deal OFF,” Romano wrote. “Nigerian striker won’t join the club, deal was advanced… but never done as Al Nassr never gave final green light.”

Instead, Al Nassr has shifted its focus to Aston Villa’s Jhon Durán.

“Jhon Durán to Al Nassr, here we go!” Romano added. “Aston Villa to receive €77m fixed fee plus add-ons. Medical booked tomorrow, and then he will travel to Saudi right after.”

Boniface’s transfer had seemed imminent, with both clubs reportedly agreeing on a €60million fee before Al Nassr’s decision to pivot to Durán.