Monchi discusses Arsenal transfer interest in Ollie Watkins as Aston Villa bid stance revealed

Arsenal were interested in signing Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa in the January transfer window, according to the club's former sporting director Monchi

Aston Villa's former President of Football Operations Monchi has discussed Arsenal's pursuit of Ollie Watkins earlier this year, with the Gunners reportedly interested in signing the striker for a period of time. Roberto Olabe took over from the 57-year-old with immediate effect after the summer window closed, whilst Damian Vidagany continued in his position as Director of Football Operations.

Monchi occupied the role of President of Football Operations at Villa for slightly more than two years and was instrumental in the club's development under Unai Emery. Villa offloaded Diego Carlos, Jadon Philogene and Jhon Duran for close to £100million last January, with Duran making the switch to Al-Nassr for a huge fee, reports Birmingham Live.

Arsenal's pursuit of Watkins created additional complications at the time, though Villa remained steadfast in their refusal to part with their leading striker for anything below £60million.

"There was real interest in Watkins from Arsenal in the January transfer window," Monchi told Flashscore. "In this summer market there has been no formal offer.

"Let's see, in three months there is almost a summer, because every time the markets start earlier and earlier. There is not only interest for Ollie, for Morgan, for Matty Cash, Konsa, for McGinn, for everyone because in such an extensive market, in a squad with such good players and who also come from two magnificent seasons, there are rumours, but there were no formal offers."

Arsenal did not sign Watkins in January and instead turned their attention to Viktor Gyokeres, who they signed from Sporting CP in a deal worth £63.5million. Watkins and Benjamin Sesko were linked with a move to Emirates Stadium before Gyokeres made the move, however.

Monchi, speaking about his decision to depart, stated: "After two very successful years, the next step was consolidation in the elite... after a lot of wear and tear, maybe new faces were needed... We agreed it was best for everyone.

"It's been a city that has welcomed me very well... I enjoyed two and a half magnificent years. I lived in the centre, St. Paul's Square, close to the city centre and relatively close to Bodymoor [training ground].

"For a public person, Birmingham is perfect. I could go out in the street practically without being recognised. Of course I missed Spain, especially Seville/San Fernando, but I have very fond memories of Birmingham."