Arsenal targeted former Real Madrid and Chelsea star after their shock move for Ollie Watkins was rejected by Aston Villa
Arsenal targeted former Real Madrid and Chelsea star after their shock move for Ollie Watkins was rejected by Aston Villa
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Arsenal reportedly discussed the possibility of bringing former Real Madrid and Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata to the club after a deal for Ollie Watkins fell through. The Gunners were keen to bolster their attacking options during the January transfer window, given the long term injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Even with a fully fit squad, Arsenal were criticised for their reluctance to recruit an out-and-out striker.
![[The club discussed a loan move for AC Milan forward Alvaro Morata before he joined Turkish side Galatasaray]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/02/04/09/94839411-0-image-a-2_1738662941703.jpg)
But efforts were made last month to acquire Watkins from Aston Villa, and despite the 29-year-old's willingness to join the club he supported as a boy, Villa resolutely refused to sanction the sale of another forward, following Jhon Duran's exit. According to The Athletic, Mikel Arteta's side remained interested in signing a striker and even considered signing Spain captain Morata on loan until the end of the season.
![[Arsenal had an offer for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected in the final few days of the window]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/02/04/09/94839529-0-image-a-3_1738662991446.jpg)
The 32-year-old moved to AC Milan last summer but has had a bit part role for the Serie A giants, scoring just five league goals in 16 matches. The report claims that Arsenal expressed interest in the two-time Champions League winner but ultimately lost out to Turkish side Galatasaray, who were much more emphatic in their desire to sign the forward. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was keen to bolster their attacking options during the January transfer window.
The club discussed a loan move for AC Milan forward Alvaro Morata before he joined Turkish side Galatasaray. Arsenal had an offer for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins rejected in the final few days of the window. In the end, Arsenal opted not to sign another striker, leaving Kai Havertz as the only fit recognised centre forward in the squad. Leandro Trossard is capable of playing in the position but the Gunners are also light in the wide areas, with the injury to Saka.
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