Arsenal have turned their attention to Ollie Watkins as they try and secure January reinforcements for Mikel Arteta's attack. Villa have rejected a bid from the Gunners for their striker with the end of the winter transfer window looming less than a week away.

Aston Villa have rejected a formal offer from Arsenal for Ollie Watkins, sources have told ESPN. Arsenal want to sign a forward before Monday's transfer deadline and are pursuing alternative options after accepting Benjamin Sesko is unlikely to leave Red Bull Leipzig this month.

A Transfer Battle BrewingArsenal have made a bold move for Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his attacking force

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on midfielder Ethan Nwaneri after the 17-year-old produced another fine performance to help his side secure a spot in the Champions League round of 16 with a victory at Girona.

Arsenal goalscorer Ethan Nwaneri said his match-winning strike against Girona that marked his full Champions League debut was “one of the highlights” of his career. The 17-year-old became the second-youngest English scorer in the competition on Wednesday after Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham when he curled in a fine effort just before half-time in Catalonia to complete a 2-1 comeback win from a goal down and ensure his side’s progression.