Arsenal won't pursue Watkins in summer transfer window after January bid rejection

Watkins, 29, was a surprising target for Arsenal in the January transfer market. Their £40 million offer for the England international was turned down by Villa, who were unwilling to part with both him and Jhon Duran, but the Colombian ultimately made a high-profile move to the Saudi Pro League.

While speculation arose that Arsenal could return for Watkins in the summer, especially considering his ties as a lifelong Gunners supporter, reports indicate that the club's focus has shifted elsewhere.

According to Sky Sports, the North London club are now looking at younger, alternative targets, with their interest in the Villa striker no longer a priority.

The Gunners have already been linked with several top strikers for the upcoming transfer window, including RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko. Despite having been a key target last year, Sesko opted to extend his contract with the German club. Another target, Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres, is also expected to move in the coming months.