Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins reacts to Lucas Digne amid exit rumours
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has responded to team mate Lucas Digne as uncertainty swirls around his future.
It was exclusively revealed by Football Insider that Villa may be forced to sell stars this summer as sanctions from UEFA and the Premier League loom over the club’s financial position.
Watkins has been of interest to Arsenal in this window, but that deal now seems off the table as the Gunners have agreed a deal to sign Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Manchester United and Newcastle have also shown interest and make make a move for the 29-year-old.
Ruben Amorim has been actively searching for a striker this summer, whilst Eddie Howe wants competition for Alexander Isak following the departure of Callum Wilson.
Villa defender could also make shock exit
Digne could also be departing the club this summer as Atletico Madrid have opened talks to sign the left-back.
The Frenchman though has reported back to Villa for pre-season training as seen on his Instagram, which was liked by team mate Watkins.
The 31-year-old joined Villa from Everton in 2022 and has made over 100 appearances for the club.
Villa struggles against financial backdrop
Football Insider Verdict
Villa have been working around financial rules this summer as Unai Emery looks to strengthen his squad, but big departures look certain to happen.
The club have been quiet in signing players in this window as they have been unable to afford the permanent signings of Marcus Rashford and Marcus Asesnio following their loan spells.
A controversial decision on the final day of the Premier League season meant Villa missed out on Champions League football which has hurt their finances.
Morgan Rogers is another star who could leave alongside Watkins and Digne, but the club have placed a £100m valuation on the 22-year-old.
Midfielder Jacob Ramsey is linked with Spurs and that would be a good financial move for Villa considering they will keep all the profits as a product of their academy.
Emery would be forced to replace Watkins, should the striker depart as the club have no other natural number nine in their squad.
| Appearances | 57 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 14 |
That would create a problem for Emery and their hopes of reclaiming a Champions League place next season.