Aston Villa’s new Ollie Watkins offer revealed, Chelsea in swap deal swoop

Aston Villa have no interest in allowing Ollie Watkins to leave the club this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Premier League outfit could even consider giving the striker a “bumper” new deal to end speculation.

Football Insider revealed that Chelsea are considering a sensational swap offer for the Villa star that would see at least one Blues first teamer head the other way plus cash in exchange.

Cole Palmer even tried to convince the striker to make the switch while away on international duty at the 2024 Euros, Football Insider reported.

However, Villa aren’t even considering letting Watkins leave this summer and he is under a long-term contract that runs until 2028.

Watkins would cost a team between £70-80 million this summer, a fee that few clubs can afford due to concerns over FFP and PSR.

Villa are content that the striker will still be at the club next season, and Watkins is said to be happy where he is.

Aston Villa are able to offer Ollie Watkins Champions League football

Watkins is a versatile striker who can lead the line alone or play as a two, and the fact he can give lots of options is why he’s in high demand.

It is believed that any team looking to strengthen their forward line would have Watkins on their shortlist this summer, but the price tag is expected to be too high.

The fact Villa finished fourth last season provides the club with Champions League football which is a positive for the club as Watkins doesn’t have an incentive to look for it elsewhere.

Aston Villa
Credit: Getty Images

Watkins impressed during his substitute appearances at the 2024 Euros, which saw him score the goal that took England to the final of the competition.

He proved to be crucial to Villa’s success last season, scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists in all competitions.

In other news, Moussa Diaby offer “too good” for Villa to reject.

For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.