What Ollie Watkins did in front of Aston Villa fans after scoring vs Celtic speaks volumes amid Arsenal links

Ollie Watkins made a telling gesture in front of the Holte End, just moments after scoring for Aston Villa in their crucial Champions League clash against Celtic.

The 29-year-old striker, who has netted 11 goals in all competitions for Unai Emery’s side this season, was the subject of a surprise £60 million bid from Arsenal on Wednesday afternoon.

Arsenal have reportedly identified Watkins as the man that can ‘ignite their title challenge’, with manager Mikel Arteta being a long-term admirer of the boyhood Gunners supporter.

Villa would swiftly reject the bid, according to the Daily Mail, although an improved attempt from the Gunners is expected ahead of Monday’s deadline.

In addition to those claims, the Premier League side are said to be unhappy with the timing of the offer as it came ahead of their Champions League clash against Celtic – a game they went on to win 4-2.

Ollie Watkins also found the back of the net for Villa and moments after making it 3-2, the striker tapped the badge in front of the Holte End – a gesture which brought a huge cheer from those in attendance.

Here’s how fans on social media reacted to Watkins’ celebration.

One said: “Watkins tapped the badge and did the “calm down” gesture at full time to the Holte. No chance he leaves in the next few days.”

A second commented: “OLLIE WATKINS BADGE TAPPING IN FRONT OF THE HOLTE THERE ARE TEARS IN MY EYES,” and another wrote: “Watkins smashing the Villa badge… Make of that what you will

A fourth said: “Watkins scores then pats the Villa badge on his shirt. Good to see,” and a fifth added: “Watkins tapping the badge. Staying?”

Watkins grew up supporting the Gunners. “That’s the dream to play for Arsenal one day,” he said during his spell at Brentford. “But it’s a long shot. It’s only because my family support them and stuff like that. But that’s a long-term [goal].”

Asked for his favourite player, Watkins added: “Thierry Henry. I’m an Arsenal fan, so Thierry Henry was my [favourite player]. He’s unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up really.”