Sky Sports journalist shares whether Ollie Watkins could make January Aston Villa exit after what he’s done

Dan Bardell says there is “absolutely no chance” Ollie Watkins would leave Aston Villa during the January transfer window, despite the player’s strong season.

With 24 games, the England international has 14 goals and 8 assists, moving Villa up to third place in the Premier League standings.

Even though the 27-year-old forward signed a new five-year contract at Villa Park in September, he has been linked to moves to both Arsenal and Manchester United this season.

Considering that the team is only one point behind the Gunners at the top of the standings, Bardell doesn’t see the club letting any of its important players go during the January transfer window.

“He’s just signed a five-year contract; there’s absolutely no chance that Villa are going to lose Ollie Watkins to anyone,” Bardell stated in an exclusive interview with Villa News.

I don’t believe it’s a big deal because I don’t think anyone could potentially take Villa’s players. I think Villa has a great environment right now, and the manager has done a great job of helping the players.

“I believe the players are aware that Unai Emery at Aston Villa has played a significant role in getting them to where they are in their football careers. I don’t think anyone, especially Villa’s finest players, would be departing in January.

“I think there’s complete buy-in from these players with Unai Emery, so I’m not worried about it in the slightest and it’s not something that particularly concerns me even in the summer.”

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