Mathys Tel: Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd and Spurs interested as Bayern Munich confirm forward wants to leave

News of Arsenal's bid for Watkins, reported to have been made last week, broke just hours before Villa's Champions League victory over Celtic that secured their passage through to the last 16.

Despite the knock-back, the Gunners are expected to bid again for Watkins.

It also emerged on Wednesday night that Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr believe they have struck a deal for Villa's other top striker Jhon Duran.

Speaking after the win over Celtic, Villa boss Unai Emery fell short of ruling out Watkins, a known Arsenal fan, departing.

"Every player can be in the market in case it is good for the club, the player and the team but to get this deal of course we are going to be very demanding as well and Watkins is our striker," said Emery.