A late pivot to focus on the forward line led to an opportunistic attempt to sign Ollie Watkins and discussions over Alvaro Morata

Arsenal remain interested in finalising a deal for Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins before the end of Transfer Deadline Day. The Gunners lodged an enquiry to sign Watkins last week, but their initial offer of €48 million (£40m) was immediately rebuffed by Unai Emery’s side.

Former Arsenal star Kieran Gibbs has applauded Unai Emery for the way in which he has handled the fallout from the collapse of Ollie Watkins ’ proposed transfer to the Gunners. Villa turned down a bid from Arsenal for England striker Watkins earlier this week, reported to be in the region of £60million.

Arsenal transfer news with the latest on Ollie Watkins' proposed move from Aston Villa to the Emirates Stadium

However, it sounds as though the Watkins trail has gone cold, and according to John Townley, speaking on the Claret and Blue Podcast, the Aston Villa star won’t be going anywhere on deadline day. Townley shared what he knows about Watkins amid murmurs that he could still be on the move.

Unai Emery has confirmed Ollie Watkins has told him he is happy to stay at Aston Villa despite interest from Arsenal with a few days of the winter window remaining.

The chances of Watkins being one of those continues to dwindle especially following Jhon Duran's confirmed switch to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. Following a major update on Saturday, Arteta's pursuit of the 27-year-old looks to have been further derailed.

Arsenal have had an approach for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins turned down as they try to bring in a new forward before Monday’s transfer deadline.

A Transfer Battle BrewingArsenal have made a bold move for Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his attacking force

Arsenal transfer news as Ollie Watkins debut and Carabao Cup availability explained with deadline day move still possible