Striker Ollie Watkins has told boss Unai Emery he wants to stay at Aston Villa and reject interest from Arsenal. The Gunners made an approach for the England international on Monday but it was knocked back as Villa have no intention of letting the forward leave.

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery says Ollie Watkins wants to stay at the club after Arsenal made a bid for the striker. Watkins was the subject of a rejected offer from the Gunners earlier this week, reported to be £60million.

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.