Arsenal are reportedly preparing a second bid for Ollie Watkins after seeing their opening offer rejected by Aston Villa.

Mikel Arteta is said to be a long-standing admirer of the England striker, and the Gunners are now working on what would be a stunning swoop ahead of next week's winter transfer deadline. The odds are stacked against Arsenal, given that Watkins has more than three years left to run on his contract and is a key player for Unai Emery.

Villa may also want to wait until Jhon Duran's situation plays out, with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr pushing to sign the Colombian, who has played back-up to Watkins this season.

According to The Daily Mail, Arsenal have already sent an offer for Watkins, but Villa rejected it immediately. An improved bid is now believed to be in the works as the Gunners look to force their rivals' hand.

Arsenal reportedly opened the bidding at around £60million, and Villa are believed to be unhappy about the timing of the approach, which was made hours before their crucial Champions League clash with Celtic.

Watkins has scored 10 goals and laid on five assists in the Premier League this season. He racked up 32 goal contributions last term and has hit double figures in every one of his five campaigns at Villa.

It remains to be seen whether Villa would be willing to cash in on the striker, who is less than a year from his 30th birthday. They are reportedly pursuing Chelsea star Joao Felix to bolster Emery's forward options.

Watkins grew up an Arsenal fan and said in 2020, while he was still playing for Brentford: "That's the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it's a long shot."

The Gunners have been exploring attacking options in the transfer market following injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Kai Havertz has led the line this season but many feel the team would benefit from more firepower.

Alexander Isak, Matheus Cunha, Victor Osimhen and Dusan Vlahovic have all been linked with the Emirates Stadium this month. But club chiefs have seemingly set their sights on Watkins with less than a week until the deadline.

Arsenal have a six-point gap to close on Premier League leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand. Arteta's side face Girona tonight (Wednesday) to cap off the league phase of their Champions League campaign, having all but assured their spot in the knockout rounds.