Arsenal transfer target Ollie Watkins appeared to pick up an injury during Aston Villa's Premier League clash against Wolves. The Gunners have been strongly linked with a move for Watkins this week after having an offer for him rejected by Villa.

Instead, it was a different striker that was allowed to depart by Unai Emery with Jhon Duran sealing a move to Saudi Arabia by joining Al-Nassr. The 27-year-old staying put at Villa Park subsequently looked the most likely outcome, but Arsenal's interest remains.

Villa are also far from done when it comes to January transfer business with Joao Felix of Chelsea still being linked. Marcus Rashford also emerged as an option with a possible loan deal moving quickly and the Manchester United star already agreeing personal terms.

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With one new attacking signing set to arrive, Watkins also departing is feasible but as it turns out, neither Emery or Mikel Arteta may have him available for the next few weeks. During the opening 45 minutes of Villa's Midlands Derby against Wolves, Watkins appeared to pick up an issue while running with the ball.

Following the whistle that signalled the interval, Watkins was also seen chatting to a Villa member of staff. As the players came out for the second half, it soon became clear that Watkins was not present and was almost certainly one of four being subbed off at half time.

While Andres Garcia, Jacob Ramsey and Lucas Digne being replaced by Leon Bailey, Ian Maatsen and Amadou Onana appeared tactical, the decision to place Donyell Malen through the middle in place of Watkins was almost certainly because of injury.

Given how he appeared to pull up, the potential issue being muscular is very likely and the England international could therefore be set for a period out of the team. If that does end up being the case, Arsenal are far more likely to end their pursuit and perhaps look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements before deadline day.