Everton considering surprise transfer move for “outstanding” Aston Villa star

Everton are reportedly keeping close tabs on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a summer transfer window target.

It seems the Toffees are keen on Watkins as an option to strengthen up front in case he becomes available after a slightly below-par season at Villa Park.

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That’s according to a report from Football Insider, which also cites former Premier League scout Mick Brown describing Watkins as a potentially “outstanding” addition to David Moyes’ squad.

Everton are having a fine season and a good summer could really help establish themselves as a more genuine top four contender, with Watkins perhaps a signing that could propel them up a level.

Ollie Watkins to Everton transfer would be “outstanding”, says Mick Brown

Speaking to Football Insider about the Watkins to Everton links, Brown said: “Ollie Watkins would be an outstanding option for Everton.

He added: “I think he’s still a great option for Aston Villa as well, but it seems they might be looking to sell him at the end of the season because of their financial issues.

“Watkins is one of those strikers who is always working hard, running the channels, getting in behind defenders and causing problems.

“He might not be the most consistent in front of goal, his first touch isn’t always perfect, but he gives you something a lot of strikers don’t these days.

“Plus, he’s got bags of experience in the Premier League and he’s shown over a number of years that he can score goals at the highest level.

“So for Everton, they’re still not convinced by the strikers they’ve got, and Watkins is definitely an upgrade on them.”

What next for Ollie Watkins?

Watkins has previously been linked with bigger clubs, but it seems that chance has probably gone now.

The 30-year-old has been a terrific servant to Villa, and at his peak he surely could have been a useful option for suitors such as Arsenal and Manchester United.

Watkins scored 17 goals in all competitions last season, but he’s now down to just 10 so far this term, so it seems age is catching up with him a bit.

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