Arsenal would ‘prefer’ to sign two alternative strikers to Ollie Watkins but have ‘panicked’ in the final week of the transfer window, according to former Gunners midfielder Emmanuel Petit. The north London club are considering making a second offer for England international Watkins after seeing their opening £60m bid rejected by Aston Villa.

The Gunners are actively trying to secure the services of the England international striker in the January transfer window and could make a second offer after their opening bid was turned down

Indeed, the higher-ups at Arsenal believe that Ollie Watkins could well be the signings that defines their season. According to The Mail, Arsenal believe that Ollie Watkins could be the signing to ignite their title push. Arsenal currently sit six points behind Liverpool in the title race with the Reds having a game in hand on the Gunners.

All the latest rumours, transfer talks, medicals, agreements and done deals in one place – follow along with Thursday’s live blog here.

In today's Premier League rumors, Arsenal to bid again for Ollie Watkins, Tyler Dibling linked with Bayern Munich and Steven Gerrard set to leave Al-Ettifaq.

Aston Villa reject an initial approach from Arsenal for Ollie Watkins and are reportedly considering a Saudi bid for Jhon Duran.

THE January transfer window is heating up with some MAJOR moves in the pipeline as Deadline Day quickly approaches. Arsenal are reportedly readying their second bid for Aston Villa’s England

THE January transfer window is heating up with some MAJOR moves in the pipeline as Deadline Day quickly approaches. Arsenal are reportedly readying their second bid for Aston Villa’s England

Arsenal want to sign Matheus Cunha, but it is Aston Villa who are planning to bid for the Wolves forward and also keep Ollie Watkins.

While Saka must be a fan of his countryman, Unai Emery hinted Watkins will snub Arsenal and stay at Aston Villa after they beat Celtic 4-2 in the Champions League on Wednesday night. Declan Rice has also spent a number of years playing with the Arsenal target for England and against him as well.

Transfer news LIVE! Aston Villa's Watkins stance revealed, Arsenal's £60m striker deal, Tel fee agreed - The transfer window is approaching its final week as clubs in the Premier League and across Eur