Arsenal could turn their attention to Bayern Munich wonderkid Mathys Tel if Aston Villa remain reluctant to sell Ollie Watkins, according to Daily Mail.
The Gunners are determined to bolster their centre-forward department before the deadline. Watkins has been identified as the priority transfer target.
The England international is open to joining the club this winter, but Villa have no plans of parting ways with him during the transfer window.
The Villans have just sanctioned Jhon Duran’s move to Al-Nassr. He has undergone his medical and could formally join the Saudi Pro League club in the coming hours.
Arsenal’s initial £40 million bid for Watkins was turned down this week, and Villa seem unlikely to consider his sale before Monday’s transfer deadline.
If their stance is unchanged, it is claimed that Arsenal ‘could launch’ a move for Mathys Tel.
The Gunners are closely monitoring the Bayern youngster, who is also on the radar of Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Manchester United and Villa.
Arsenal could make final Watkins bid before Tel move
The Gunners have received encouragement from Watkins over a mid-season transfer. The 29-year-old is a boyhood Arsenal fan and has spoken about his dream of playing for the club.
Arsenal are likely to return with a fresh proposal soon. They could make a renewed offer of around £50m. If Villa resist his sale, the Gunners could turn their attention to Tel.
The ‘record-breaking‘ youngster is one of the best-emerging forwards. He has had limited playing time at Bayern due to the presence of Harry Kane, Leroy Sane and Kingsley Coman.
Tel can play across the attack due to his good mobility and dribbling skills. However, Arsenal could see him as a candidate to compete with Kai Havertz for the number nine position.
Spurs have already set the benchmark by agreeing a deal worth £50m with Bayern for Tel. The striker has yet to commit to them. Arsenal may have to match the figure to sign him.
Arsenal should have an advantage over Spurs in the pursuit as they can offer Champions League football. Tel is ‘waiting‘ for the Gunners and could join them if he is assured game time.
