Newcastle plot raid on Aston Villa for £90M-rated mainstay

Newcastle United are weighing up a potential summer move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as they seek to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.

The Magpies have made it a priority to bring in a proven Premier League forward who can lead their front line, and Watkins, with his consistent performances and Premier League pedigree, has emerged as a serious candidate on their shortlist.

Watkins has been a cornerstone of Aston Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery, developing into one of the most reliable and dynamic strikers in the English top flight.

Since arriving at Villa Park from Brentford in 2020, he has made over 200 appearances and amassed an impressive 87 goals and 42 assists across all competitions.

His ability to score, create, and link play has turned him into a complete forward, capable of leading the line or operating in a two-man system, making him an appealing option for any top-six club.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Watkins comes in the wake of Callum Wilson’s departure, leaving a gap in the squad for a proven goal scorer.

While Alexander Isak remains an elite option, uncertainty continues to swirl around his long-term future amid persistent speculation linking him with a move to other Premier League heavyweights, particularly Liverpool.

That situation has prompted the Newcastle hierarchy to prepare for all scenarios, including the possibility of losing Isak, which would increase the urgency to secure a top-tier forward.

Watkins fits the profile Newcastle are seeking: Premier League experience, tactical versatility, and a proven record of consistent performance.

He brings intensity in pressing, excellent movement off the ball, and an ability to finish in tight situations qualities that align well with Eddie Howe’s high-energy, forward-thinking system.

The 29-year-old has also matured significantly in recent seasons, adding leadership and composure to his game, which would prove invaluable to a side with Champions League ambitions.

However, signing Watkins won’t be straightforward. Aston Villa are determined to retain their star striker and have slapped a £90 million valuation on him in an attempt to fend off interest.

The club sees him as central to their own European aspirations and is unwilling to lose such an integral figure without significant compensation. Villa’s steep asking price reflects not only his on-field value but also his importance in their broader project under Emery.

Despite the hefty fee, Newcastle remain keen. They are financially stable, especially after improved revenues and a successful campaign, and are now positioned to make calculated but bold investments.

Watkins, while 29, represents a signing that brings immediate impact and addresses a pressing need. He’s a forward who knows the league, scores regularly, and can slot into the team with minimal adaptation.

There’s also a wider context to consider. The Premier League’s financial landscape is shifting, and transfer valuations for domestic talent continue to rise.

In this environment, paying a premium for a homegrown player with Watkins’ record might not seem excessive, particularly for a club looking to solidify its top-four credentials.

Watkins’ familiarity with the pace and physicality of the league, combined with his consistency, reduces the risk typically associated with high-priced foreign imports.

The challenge now lies in whether Newcastle will match Villa’s valuation or attempt to negotiate a lower fee. The Magpies are known for their pragmatism in the transfer market and won’t rush into overpaying without a clear path to return on investment.

However, if Isak’s situation remains unresolved or if rival clubs begin to circle Watkins, Newcastle may be compelled to act decisively to secure the deal.

As the window progresses, Newcastle’s interest in Watkins could either escalate into a record-breaking deal or serve as a signal of their intent to target players at the peak of their careers who can make an immediate difference.

Whether Watkins makes the switch to Tyneside will depend on Newcastle’s willingness to meet Villa’s demands and Watkins’ own desire to take on a fresh challenge at a club with growing ambitions.