Liverpool Want To Sign Aston Villa Attacker: Why Keeping Him Is Important For The Lions? | OneFootball

Since arriving in 2020 from Brentford for £28m, Ollie Watkins has become Aston Villa’s attacking lynchpin. His impact has been immediate. With 87 goals and 42 assists in over 200 appearances, the Englishman has earned a place among the Premier League’s best strikers. His level of performance has attracted the attention of major clubs, and now, according to Daily Mail, Liverpool have him in their sights as a potential summer signing. Although not their main target, Watkins figures as an alternative plan if they fail with Newcastle‘s Isak.

Liverpool tempt, Aston Villa uneasy

The Premier League champions are looking to add a striker amid doubts over the future of Darwin Nunez. In addition, the Diogo Jota tragedy has left them with fewer attacking resources. That’s why the Anfield side have made a bid for Watkins. Daily Mail reports that the player is open to offers, and Liverpool could swoop hard if Newcastle do not release Isak. Despite being under contract until 2028, Watkins could leave if Villa need to balance the books due to PSR demands.

Villa can’t afford to lose their benchmark player

Aston Villa must be firm. Losing their all-time leading scorer in the Premier League just as the club looks to establish themselves among the best would be a step backwards. Watkins not only provides goals, but he also structures the attack, drags markers and is a key weapon in generating attack. While the proceeds from his sale could ease financial pressures and allow for new additions, finding a replacement of the same calibre will be difficult. The club would have to shield him with a salary increase and renew his sporting commitment. In case a sale is inevitable, only a striker like Gonçalo Ramos or Sørloth could keep up the competitive pace. However, if Villa want to keep looking at Europe, the smart thing to do is to build around Watkins, not sell him.