Alan Shearer says ‘underrated’ Arsenal target is the most improved player in the Premier League

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Alan Shearer has labelled reported Arsenal target Ollie Watkins as the most improved player in the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta’s men were heavily linked with a move for a striker in January but in truth, their hands were tied due to financial constraints.

Arsenal have been in free-scoring form ever since, having netted 31 goals en route to seven consecutive wins in the league. But the prospect of bringing in another striker to compete with Gabriel Jesus this summer remains a likely possibility.

Ollie Watkins is one forward who has been identified as a possible target for the Gunners.

And after netting 21 goals for Aston Villa so far this season, Alan Shearer believes the 28-year-old is the most improved player in England’s top flight.

Shearer lauds Arsenal target Watkins

Writing in his latest column for The Athletic, Shearer made the case for Watkins playing alongside Harry Kane at this summer’s Euros for England.

“Play Ollie Watkins in the No 9 role. Kane can drop back into the No 10 space, which we all know is a natural part of his game and one where he has been so key in creating for England, Tottenham and Bayern Munich. Bellingham would take up a deeper midfield position alongside Rice. Foden and Saka still cut in from out wide,” Shearer wrote.

“Yes, it would be a first, as the two have never shared a pitch for England — but this season, Watkins is looking like the most improved player in the Premier League. He has 16 league goals already, his best top-flight return, with 11 games left to play. This is already the season of his life.

“Some of the credit for that must go down to Unai Emery, who appears to have told Watkins to do the vast majority of his work between the width of the penalty area. It’s not genius but it certainly works.”

Watkins has been labelled an ‘underrated’ player and is enjoying his best season to date with Villa.

Having netted 21 goals and provided 10 assists in all competitions, he’d certainly add more firepower to the Arsenal frontline.

But whether or not he fits the profile of a typical Arsenal signing is up for debate.

At 28, Watkins is entering his prime years and should only continue to improve over the coming seasons.

His all-round game would also suit Arsenal well, with the striker known for his brilliant work-rate and ability to bring his teammates into play.