Everton backed to complete Ollie Watkins signing after source’s update – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Ollie Watkins would be a “really worthwhile signing” for Everton if a deal can be struck in the final two weeks of the window.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, warned that the 26-year-old will need to improve his goalscoring return in order to remain in Gareth Southgate’s England plans.
Sources told this site on Friday (19 August) that Everton have registered their interest in signing Aston Villa star Watkins.
It is understood that the Midlands giants are open to letting the England international go as they work on a deal to recruit an A-list front man.
Watkins notched 11 goals and two assists in 36 appearances for Villa last term.
Everton are desperate to sign a striker in the final weeks of the window after star man Dominic Calvert-Lewin was sidelined through injury earlier this month.
However, Whelan claimed Calvert-Lewin and Watkins could forge a formidable partnership at Goodison Park if a deal can be completed.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’d be a good signing.
“He’s a very busy striker, always running. He was probably a more consistent scorer for Brentford than he has been for Aston Villa, however.
“But his work rate and his unselfishness would make him a really worthwhile signing. Some of his runs are really good at dragging people away, and creating space for others.
“Playing him and Calvert-Lewin up front together – that to me would be a real sight for sore eyes for defenders.
“What he needs to add back to his game, though, is goals – that’s the only way he can get back into England contention.
“That’s what it all comes down to when you’re a striker.”
In other news, Football Insider updates with Everton in advanced talks to sign Ajax star.