Paul Merson makes Ollie Watkins transfer prediction in wake of Arsenal bid for Aston Villa star

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Arsenal remain in pursuit of a new striker with transfer deadline day fast approaching.

The Gunners haven’t had any luck on that front so far, though they signalled their intent earlier this week with a bold £60million bid for Ollie Watkins.

Arsenal’s bid for Watkins was rejected by Aston Villa, who were furious due to the Gunners making their move just before their Champions League meeting with Celtic.

Paul Merson has now made a transfer prediction involving Arsenal and Watkins that Gunners fans will hope comes true.

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Paul Merson says he’d be shocked if Arsenal didn’t manage to sign Ollie Watkins

Merson, speaking on the Sky Sports Transfer Show, said he doesn’t feel the Watkins to Arsenal saga is over yet and predicted more twists and turns by Monday.

The Highbury legend also said he’d be “shocked” if the Gunners don’t follow up their initial bid for Watkins and get a deal over the line before the window shuts.

“I still don’t think the Watkins saga is finished just yet,” began Merson.

“I know Emery said he’s happy but you don’t need to say anything. There’s more to come for that before Monday.”

Merson went on to say: “I would be shocked if Arsenal didn’t get Watkins because it’s a bit embarrassing if you put in a bid for someone and you don’t get him.

“No disrespect, he’s at Aston Villa and Arsenal are coming for you. Arsenal are that next level for Watkins and he supports them as a fan.

“Watkins has played for this league, scores goals and plays for England. It just fits.

“And he hits the ground running for the next three or four months and gives Arsenal the opportunity of winning the Premier League.”

How much Merson thinks Arsenal should bid for Watkins

Merson continued by saying Watkins would be a ready-made signing for Arsenal who’d instantly boost their league chances from now until 2027.

He also said he disagreed with those Gunners fans saying Watkins is too old at 29 and urged the club to make a £100million bid for the Villa man.

“Arsenal have to be patient,” continued Merson. “Stay patient with Arteta and Arsenal will be there or thereabouts. 

“I would get Watkins. I hear Arsenal fans say he’s 29. Who cares? It’s for now, next year and the year after. After that, it doesn’t matter.

“Put in £100million! If they do that, I’d be shocked if Villa turned that down!”

Arsenal are also said to be looking at alternatives to Watkins in Benjamin Sesko and Dusan Vlahovic.

Sesko, a player said to have an eye for the ‘spectacular’, has been on Arsenal’s radar for over a year now and is said to have a £55million price tag.

Arsenal reportedly held talks with Juventus about Vlahovic – who is said to have a £66million price tag – earlier this month.