Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa striker, looks set to be one of the most prominent names in the current summer transfer market, as his situation is closely monitored by the two Premier League giants, Manchester United and Arsenal, amid widespread interest from several English and European clubs in the 30-year-old player.

According to the British newspaper The Sun, Aston Villa have already thwarted an ambitious move from Turkish club Fenerbahce, which was preparing to submit a £30 million (€35 million) bid for the English international striker; the English club made it absolutely clear they would not let the player go, nipping negotiations in the bud.

The Turkish giants had hoped to tempt Watkins with a three-year contract worth between £7.5 million and £8.5 million per year.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are showing serious interest in Watkins amid growing reports about the potential departure of their Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus; this has prompted manager Mikel Arteta to look for alternative attacking options, with the Aston Villa striker topping the Gunners' wish list.

For their part, Manchester United are closely monitoring the situation but with a different perspective; the potential departure of Joshua Zirkzee to Serie A is pushing the Red Devils to explore new options up front, and if the Dutch striker moves to Juventus or Roma, United are expected to make a formal bid for Watkins.

Aston Villa's financial situation could play a decisive role in determining the player's future next season; sources indicate that the club might consider accepting offers around £40 million, at a time when the financial power of Premier League clubs emerges as a key factor that could break Aston Villa's resolve to keep their star.