Arsenal hold Ollie Watkins transfer edge after he reveals ‘connection’ in Thierry Henry admission

Ollie Watkins had an evening to forget as his Aston Villa side lost 2-0 against Arsenal on Saturday.

The England striker missed a sitter in the first half, and when he was presented with perhaps an even easier chance after the break, David Raya was able to pull off a spectacular save.

Raya was praised for his heroics, but, in truth, Watkins should have scored on both occasions.

The 28-year-old is certainly a capable finisher, and he netted 27 times, across all competitions, last season. It was a bad day at the office on Saturday, but Watkins will rediscover his clinical edge before too long.

Arsenal will still be keeping a close eye on the player, having been credited with an interest in signing him this summer.

Arsenal have advantage in Ollie Watkins transfer race

There is an argument that Arsenal need to sign a striker before the transfer window closes.

Arsenal have been linked with Watkins, and the Aston Villa man would certainly be an exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s ranks.

The Gunners may also find, were they to pursue a move for the forward, that they have an edge when it comes to convincing him to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Watkins revealed: “My granddad supported Arsenal, so that’s the connection… I grew up supporting Arsenal.”

However, just because Watkins himself could likely be swayed to make the move to North London, that does not mean Aston Villa themselves would be easy to negotiate with.

The Midlands outfit will feel no pressure or desire to part with their star goalscorer. Watkins certainly wouldn’t come cheap.

Ollie Watkins makes Thierry Henry claim

In the same interview, Watkins gave his verdict on former striker Thierry Henry.

Watkins didn’t hesitate to heap praise on the Arsenal legend. He said: “I always say it now, the best player to play in the Premier League. I think he was a joy to watch.

“Back then, when I was younger, I used to find games a little bit boring, I couldn’t sit still and watch. But whenever Thierry had the ball I always was excited and thought he was going to create something.”

Henry is the Gunners’ all-time top goalscorer and will forever be considered an Arsenal icon. For Watkins to label him the best Premier League player of all-time, though, is some honour, and speaks to the depth of feeling that the Aston Villa man has for the Gunners.