Gabriel Agbonlahor has reacted to speculation that Liverpool are interested in signing a key Aston Villa star this summer.
Arne Slot looks set for a busy summer ahead at Liverpool as he bids to build on a hugely successful period under Jurgen Klopp.
The Dutchman will be keen to shape the squad in his image and the Reds have been linked with a move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
It’s no surprise to see Villa’s stars linked with big moves ahead of the summer after a brilliant season under Unai Emery.
Watkins himself was among the best strikers in the Premier League last season, netting 19 goals and providing 13 assists as Villa secured fourth spot.
But former Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor isn’t worried about the possibility of Watkins leaving this summer.
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Agbonlahor not worried about Ollie Watkins to Liverpool rumours
Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor claimed that while Villa need to sell this summer, he’s convinced it won’t be a player like Watkins heading out the door.
He said: “Not worried one bit. No. You’re going to hear these rumours because of how well he’s done. He’s Mr Reliable – injury record is outstanding, doesn’t get injured, gets out there every game no matter what.
“19 Premier League goals last season, outstanding. No penalties, he doesn’t take them.
“Mr Reliable in front of goal. His finishing has been so clinical. I remember a couple of years ago he was missing chances. He even said himself I want to work on my finishing because the chances I’m missing are costing me goals. Last season, he was unbelievable.
“But in October, he signed a five-year deal until 2028. Aston Villa have to sell but I think they would rather sell shares to the club than give Watkins to anyone.
“He’s going to cost you £100 million. Aston Villa are building, Unai Emery has just signed a five-year contract.”
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Watkins to Liverpool seems unlikely
Liverpool are well-stocked in the attacking department, despite concerns over Darwin Nunez’s poor end to the last season.
Slot will have the likes of Nunez, Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo to choose from to lead the line next term.
As for Villa, it’s well-documented that they need to raise funds to remain in line with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
But after securing a return to the Champions League, it would be a huge surprise to see their star man Watkins head out the door.
Emery has done an exceptional job at Villa Park and it would hardly go down well with the Spaniard if the club offloaded their top goalscorer from the last season.