Arsenal hold an interest in Ollie Watkins but face an uphill task to convince Aston Villa before Monday's deadline

Mikel Arteta has remained clear in his belief that Arsenal can achieve something special this season, but actions speak louder than words. And, if Arsenal’s approach for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins tells us anything, it is that Arteta really does believe there is still plenty to play for.

Mikel Arteta is said to be a long-standing admirer of the England striker, and the Gunners are now working on what would be a stunning swoop ahead of next week's winter transfer deadline. The odds are stacked against Arsenal, given that Watkins has more than three years left to run on his contract and is a key player for Unai Emery.

Arsenal are yet to make a signing in the January transfer window but are continuing to be linked with a host of players, with Ollie Watkins, Mathys Tel and a Liverpool star among them