As Liverpool edge closer to securing the Premier League title, new head coach Arne Slot is already planning to bolster the squad—particularly up front—with a new striker.
Slot’s debut campaign at Anfield has been marked by impressive consistency, leaving Liverpool needing just six more points to clinch their 20th top-flight crown.
Despite their strong form, the Dutchman is reportedly eager to further enhance his squad. The Reds have been linked with Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak, but his high price tag may push them to explore alternative options.
One such alternative is Aston Villa and England striker Ollie Watkins, who is now emerging as a potential target. Watkins rose to prominence last summer with a dramatic late winner against the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
Though he hasn’t yet reached the 20-goal mark in a Premier League season, Watkins’ tireless work rate could suit Liverpool’s system well. His best league campaign saw him score 19 goals in 37 games, helping Villa secure Champions League qualification.
Watkins has also shown he can trouble Liverpool—scoring six goals in 10 appearances against them, including a memorable hat-trick in Villa’s 7-2 thrashing of the Reds in 2020.
Lately, however, Watkins has seen reduced playing time at Villa Park, starting just five of the club’s 13 league matches in 2025. With Marcus Rashford now occupying a central role, doubts have arisen about Watkins’ long-term role at the club. Still under contract until 2028, his future may hinge on Villa’s plans.
Arsenal previously made a £40 million bid for Watkins in January, but it was deemed well short of Villa’s valuation.
With Darwin Nunez struggling—scoring only five league goals this season—Liverpool may view Watkins as a more reliable option to lead the line under Slot next season.
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