Arsenal are expected to make an improved second attempt to sign 29-year-old Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who grew up as an Arsenal fan. (Mail) Jhon Duran is expected to undergo a medical in London on Thursday,

Aston Villa have rejected a formal offer from Arsenal for Ollie Watkins, sources have told ESPN. Arsenal want to sign a forward before Monday's transfer deadline and are pursuing alternative options after accepting Benjamin Sesko is unlikely to leave Red Bull Leipzig this month.

Arsenal have turned their attention to Ollie Watkins as they try and secure January reinforcements for Mikel Arteta's attack. Villa have rejected a bid from the Gunners for their striker with the end of the winter transfer window looming less than a week away.