Arsenal made an unexpected bid for Aston Villa striker Watkins – who has contributed ten goals and five assists in 23 Premier League appearances this term – with initial reports claiming they offered £60m but it was revealed yesterday that the bid was more like £45m.

The transfer window closes in the coming days and Arsenal fans will be desperate to see their club dip into the winter market. The Gunners have been crying out for a an out-and-out number nine for a couple of seasons now,