Arsenal news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Ollie Watkins claim after source’s ‘huge’ reveal
Noel Whelan has claimed Arsenal target Ollie Watkins is a top talent but doubts he would have the impact of “massive” star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 32-year-old Barcelona loanee is “a grade ahead” of the Aston Villa man.
This site revealed yesterday (3 March) that Arsenal have been handed a “huge” boost in their bid to lure Watkins this summer.
A recruitment source told Football Insider that Aston Villa will listen to offers for Watkins as manager Steven Gerrard is not convinced he is the A-list striker he needs.
The five-time England international has netted six goals in 22 league appearances this term.
Whelan suggested the 26-year-old could step into Aubameyang’s shoes in the future.
“Aubameyang is a massive name, and he’s firing them in for Barcelona right now,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Is Watkins the type of player who can come in and have that same impact? I’m not so sure, I think Aubameyang is just that grade ahead when in form.
“But he’s young, and he’s got talent. There’s nothing to say that he can’t step into those shoes in the future.
“If he’s willing to go and Arsenal are willing to pay, it’s clear from what we know about their recent signings they are looking for youth and longevity. He’s relatively young but he’s already got that international recognition with England.
“It’s not the worst signing that they could make. We’ve seen him do it for Villa and his work rate is really good.
“It’s just the end product that hasn’t quite been consistent enough just yet.
“Maybe Arsenal are seeing something that they can turn around. If they can then he could be the main man upfront for them.”
In other news, pundit claims Arsenal have “secret weapon” in top-four race after reveal.