Ollie Watkins has told Aston Villa and England teammate Morgan Rogers that he can "go to the very top" after the World Cup, as Arsenal circle the 23-year-old forward.
Watkins, speaking after the tournament, could not speak highly enough of his club and international colleague, who has been identified as a key target by the Gunners this summer. The Aston Villa striker's ringing endorsement will only heighten expectations around Rogers, who is expected to decide his club-level future once the World Cup has concluded.
“Ollie Watkins says teammate Morgan Rogers, linked with Arsenal, can 'go to the very top' after World Cup.”
Arsenal's interest in Rogers has been an open secret throughout the window, and Watkins' comments are likely to accelerate negotiations. The 28-year-old England international's praise carries weight, given his own rise from the Championship to Premier League and international football.
Rogers, currently on World Cup duty, has attracted attention from several top clubs, but Arsenal are believed to be leading the chase. With Watkins' backing, the midfielder's stock continues to rise ahead of a potential big-money move.