Exclusive: Liverpool turn attention to Ollie Watkins deal

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Published on:

18 Apr 2025, 10:30 am

Liverpool are closely monitoring Ollie Watkins' situation at Aston Villa as they plot an alternative striker signing to Alexander Isak, sources have told Football Insider.

Watkins, 29, has dropped to the bench for all but one of Villa's five fixtures in April.

Marcus Rashford's future at Villa Park is key to Watkins potentially pushing for a summer move away from the Midlands giants.

It is believed the door could open for the long-serving Villa striker to depart should they sign Rashford on a permanent basis from Man United this summer.

Watkins emerges as Isak alternative at Liverpool

Arsenal saw a bid rejected for Watkins in January and Liverpool could now rival Mikel Arteta's side for the striker in the off-season.

There is a growing fear Newcastle will price Isak, 25, out of Liverpool's budget if they seal a top-five finish and qualify for next season's Champions League.

The Magpies sit third in the table with six games remaining - thanks in part to Isak's 21-goal haul in the Premier League this term.

Appearances (Starts)	47 (37)
Minutes Played	3055
Goals	15
Assists	12
Yellow Cards	1

Watkins' Aston Villa stats in the 2024-25 campaign (all competitions)

Meanwhile, Rashford now looks to be the first-choice centre-forward at Aston Villa as they also chase European qualification.

Watkins had started ahead of Jhon Duran prior to his January move to Saudi Arabia - and has notched 15 goals and 12 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions.

The England forward is under contract at Villa Park until June 2028 after penning his last deal 18 months ago.

Liverpool could turn to Watkins as an alternative to Isak this summer. (Credit: Imago)

Liverpool could boost summer budget with Diaz deal

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on Monday (14 April) that Liverpool could consider a mega-money offer for winger Luis Diaz this summer as Saudi Pro League interest resurfaces.

The Reds have held contract talks with Diaz in recent months, with his current Reds deal set to expire in June 2027 - but have not yet made progress.

It is believed Liverpool could accept a bid of £60million-plus in the off-season if he is keen to make a move elsewhere.

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