Newcastle United dread Ollie Watkins impact after £60m Arsenal transfer claim
Newcastle United's Carabao Cup semi-final opponents, Arsenal, have been linked with a sensational late transfer swoop for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, and it could have a detrimental impact on next week's second leg.
The Magpies were tasked with defeating Arsenal over two legs to book a place in March's final at Wembley Stadium. The first of those fixtures went ahead earlier this month, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon securing a 2-0 aggregate advantage for the second meeting.
It means the Gunners, who have struggled in front of goal from open play compared to previous years, need to net three goals without reply from their hosts under the lights at St. James' Park.
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Without reinforcement during the January transfer window, Newcastle would perhaps be confident of their chances. But now The Secret Scout revealed a shock approach by next week's opponents for Villa's Watkins.
With Fabrizio Romano adding that a first £60m attempt has rebuffed, discussions are supposedly continuing towards what could end up being one of the biggest surprises of the month.
Watkins is recognised as one of England's most deadliest attackers with 10 goals and five assists in 23 Premier League outings already in 2024/25. Last season he was only outscored by Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer and Isak.
His personal record against Newcastle is a worry, with four goals and two assists recorded from eight previous meetings. A player able to make such an impact in a cup semi-final for a team requiring goals would be a problem.
And that is exactly what Eddie Howe's side could face in a week's time, so long as that deal moves to completion before next Monday.
As Watkins did not appear for Villa in the competition against Wycombe Wanderers in the third round or their fourth round elimination to Crystal Palace, he is therefore not cup tied and would be eligible to play for Mikel Arteta's team.
