Arsenal FFP truth explained as next move after £60m Ollie Watkins transfer bid clear

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Qualifying for the Champions League last 16 should only aid any attempts Arsenal make to sign Ollie Watkins before the winter transfer window closes.

Aston Villa are also through to the round of 16 after Watkins scored in their 4-2 win over Celtic. The striker also missed a penalty in the match, hours after reports emerged about an approach to sign Watkins from the Gunners.

There are claims the club had a £60 million offer rejected by the West Midlands club, who also appear to have reached an agreement to sell striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr for £64.5 million plus add-ons. They seem less willing to sell Watkins, but Arsenal would be able to afford that signing - with the Gunners reportedly ready to make a second offer in a late bid to get their man.

Reach PLC's Chief Business of Football Writer Dave Powell explained the Gunners' financial situation earlier this month: "Arsenal are in the strong position of being able to move on targets in January if required, and with the club eyeing a title challenge but also conscious of ensuring that a top-four finish is achieved and Champions League football remains at the Emirates Stadium for next season, they will be able to act if they feel it is required. One area that has been a source of much focus is the front line and the need for a prolific striker."

Powell added: "The forecast is that Arsenal, for the current reporting period that runs until the end of May, could lose as much as £164m before tax and still be able to remain PSR compliant." However, it is acknowledged: "The club won't get anywhere near that kind of loss having enjoyed another season in the Champions League, albeit with some additional wage spend and amortisation costs due to transfer activity."

In summary, "according to figures presented by football finance expert Swiss Ramble, Arsenal have little to be concerned about when it comes to PSR, either this season or next."

Villa manager Unai Emery was asked about the Watkins speculation after his side's victory on Wednesday. Emery said: "I don’t want [to sell]. It is good news to have offers from other clubs.

"We want to keep our sporting objective through the players we have in the squad. Every player can be in the market in case it is good for the player and the club.

"To get this deal we are going to be demanding. Watkins is our striker."

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