Mikel Arteta could soon have Ollie Watkins in his Arsenal squad, having previously described the striker as a 'real threat.' Despite seeing a reported £60million bid turned down by Aston Villa, Arsenal are expected to make an improved offer for Watkins.

The Daily Mail reported Villa turned down Arsenal's initial £60million offer for the 29-year-old, hours before their crucial Champions League tie with Celtic. The news was first reported by The Secret Scout on X, stating an approach had been made by Arsenal before further reports outlined the details including the stance of both clubs.

Although Villa rebuffed the bid, The Secret Scout add that personal terms between Watkins' representatives and Arsenal being agreed is 'not a problem' and that talks are 'underway.' The Mail add that an 'improved attempt' is expected to follow.

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Villa meanwhile, are reported to be open to selling the England international at the right price. Arteta previously expressed his admiration for Watkins, who has kicked on under manager Unai Emery at Villa Park.

"He’s been tremendously consistent over the last few years," Arteta said in 2023. "He is a real threat, like all other strikers, don’t give him the ball in the box! That’s his main quality."

Then, on Emery, Arteta added: "He did some really good things here. It’s not for me to judge that. "The first season was a strong season.

"He did it straight away after coming from PSG. "He’s carried on. He then did incredibly well at Villarreal, and now he is doing really well at Aston Villa. He has a lot of experience and skill to get the best out of teams."

Watkins is an Arsenal supporter, having admitted his love and wish for the club in 2020. "That's the dream, to play for Arsenal one day, but, you know, it's a long shot," he said. "I'm an Arsenal fan so Thierry Henry was my [idol] he's unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up really."

Given the injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, Arteta has admitted the club are 'actively looking' to sign a striker.

Speaking recently about Arsenal's January transfer hopes, he said: "Well, there are situations open and I always say the same.

"If we can improve the squad with players that can impact us for now, for the future, we will try to do that if it is the best thing for the club - and I stand on that."