Ollie Watkins has emerged as a late transfer target for Arsenal after first reported by Secret Scout and the club have seen a bid in the region of £60million rejected by the club - football.london have been told that a bid was not made by the club on Wednesday, however, which would indicate that any approach was made before. The situation is very volatile with Jhon Duran also in discussion over a potential exit, leaving Aston Villa in a very difficult position.

On that front, selling Watkins would make the most sense, considering the age of both players and the long-term potential of Duran. This is where questions begin to be raised regarding the move from the Gunners.

Watkins has been one of the most prolific strikers in Europe for both goals and assists. He ended the previous campaign with a stunning 27 goals and 13 assists.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta confirms David Raya Arsenal injury worry before huge Man City clash

READ MORE: Every word Mikel Arteta said on Arsenal win, Ethan Nwaneri, Watkins and last-16 progression

This season has been a completely different story as minutes become more shared with Duran. He has just 10 goals across 31 appearances this season, but eight assists also.

Considering the minutes and goal contributions breakdown, Watkins produced either a goal or assist every 108 minutes last season, despite the perceived significant drop that has dipped to just every 119 minutes this season. Perhaps a switch to Arsenal would again see the output improve to even higher levels than seen before.

Maybe… but the reality remains that Arsenal would be signing a 29-year-old who is either still at the very peak of his career but very unlikely to have it ahead of him in terms of ability. The fee would have a significant impact on the club's summer spending too, and although would not necessarily impact a move for Martin Zubimendi, it would almost certainly not see a serious investment in another forward player.

Previous interest in Matheus Cunha this window - which was seen as too expensive rather quickly - showcased the desire to approach Premier League talent to provide the desired immediate winter impact, rather than move for a player from abroad or a younger profile who would need time to adapt.

That said, the club remain keen on Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel. The 19-year-old wants to leave Bayern Munich in search of more regular game time and with the versatility to play in wide areas, a much lower transfer and wage demand not impacting the Gunners' plans for a centre-forward in the future. Should Tel not fulfil short-term needs, it makes more sense.

The end of this window has been built up with little expected from Arsenal after such quietness so far. However, the conclusion appears to have something up its sleeve – but whether it will end with a signing remains to be seen.