Report: Newcastle weigh £100m move amid Watkins interest from rivals | OneFootball

Watkins emerges as top-tier option for Newcastle’s attack

Newcastle United are understood to be discussing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a serious target to bolster their attacking line this summer. With Premier League clubs now deep into their recruitment strategies, the Mail reported on 8 July that Watkins is under consideration at St James’ Park following another impressive season at Villa Park.

The 29-year-old England international scored 17 goals and provided 14 assists in 54 appearances during the 2024-25 campaign. That consistent output across domestic and European competitions has led to renewed interest from several top sides, including Manchester United, who are also monitoring the forward.

Watkins’ current deal at Villa runs until June 2028, giving Unai Emery’s side strong negotiating power. Yet financial expert Stefan Borson has claimed that Newcastle could still finance a move.

Newcastle’s £100m dilemma and PSR implications

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson offered an honest evaluation of the deal’s feasibility:“Watkins is a player you can think about buying, but we talked previously about how much he would cost overall and his age. It’s a £100million deal basically. It’s a £50million fee and it’s a £50million contract there or there about. That’s the entry price. You want to buy a proven striker, it’s a £100million commitment.”

Such a valuation would make Watkins one of the most expensive acquisitions in Newcastle’s modern history. But with Champions League qualification secured for the 2025-26 season, the Magpies have been handed a significant financial boost.

Borson explained how this could alter their transfer plans:“I think we can see that Newcastle have got a kind of £125-150million budget before selling… Then on the other side, maybe they have because they have big revenues coming through next season through the Champions League. It’s probably £60-70million guaranteed, with five home games almost certainly. It mounts up.”

This financial injection might allow Newcastle to stretch their budget while staying within Profit and Sustainability Rules. However, Watkins’ age, wage demands and long-term value remain key considerations, especially as the club looks to manage a sustainable project.

Man United competition and Arsenal’s previous interest

Watkins’ performances continue to attract suitors. Manchester United, in their own rebuild phase, have shown interest in the striker as they seek additional firepower. Arsenal were also said to have submitted a £40million bid in the January transfer window, though Villa stood firm.

That previous valuation now looks dated. With the forward coming off his most productive season and boasting Champions League experience with Villa, his market value has naturally increased. For Newcastle, moving quickly could be crucial before a potential bidding war unfolds.

Photo: IMAGO

Long-term planning versus short-term ambition

Eddie Howe’s side face an interesting strategic challenge. They are aiming to remain competitive in Europe and the Premier League while also building for the long term. Watkins would offer a ready-made solution, capable of leading the line and competing with Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson. But questions remain about whether a £100million outlay for a player nearing 30 fits the club’s evolving transfer model.

Newcastle have been linked with other attacking names too, including Yoane Wissa, while younger EFL forwards are on the radar if Sean Longstaff leaves. The club’s recruitment team appear to be exploring a range of options, balancing proven pedigree with value.

“Why Wissa & Watkins are being discussed inside NUFC… Reality of Isak contract situation… it’s complicated.”

With those internal dynamics in mind, the idea of adding Watkins could provide security and experience in what promises to be a demanding season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Newcastle fan’s point of view, the potential pursuit of Ollie Watkins might divide opinion. On one hand, he represents everything Eddie Howe could want in a forward: hard-working, tactically adaptable, Premier League proven and contributing double figures in both goals and assists. Watkins is a team player, capable of pressing from the front, linking play and occupying defenders, all of which fit Newcastle’s evolving identity.

However, the £100million price tag feels steep. For a club that has often prided itself on smart recruitment and value-based signings, this would be a major departure. Watkins is turning 30 next year, meaning the deal offers little resale value. If Newcastle have learned anything from recent seasons, it is that sustainability must come hand-in-hand with ambition.

Many supporters might argue that investing that money in a younger, longer-term prospect or spreading it across multiple positions could be more beneficial. Yet, if the ambition is to make a statement in Europe and challenge domestically, then signing a player like Watkins sends the right message. It’s a calculated gamble that could pay off, but it must be weighed against broader squad needs and future flexibility.