Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand has claimed that Aston Villa attacker Ollie Watkins deserves a move to Arsenal.
Arsenal have been long-term admirers of the England international for the past few years.
The Gunners reportedly made a £40 million bid to sign him in January this year.
Aston Villa turned down the offer and went on to sell Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.
However, Watkins’ future at the Villa Park has been up in the air in recent weeks and he could be on his way out of the club in the summer.
Speaking about Watkins, Ferdinand told TNT Sports, as quoted by Metro: “I think he is a cult hero here [Aston Villa].
“He is one of the main reasons as to why they are playing Champions League football and playing at this level.
“He is worked his way here and he deserves everything he gets.
“I was not surprised Arsenal came in for him because I think he deserves that given the performances and the output he is been putting in.”;
Watkins has made 220 appearances for Aston Villa since his move to the Premier League club in 2020, scoring 86 goals and providing 41 assists.
